Anderton calls it a day

7:45pm Thursday 4th December 2008

Former England international Darren Anderton has announced his retirement from football.

The 36-year-old will play the final game of his professional career when Bournemouth take on Chester in Coca-Cola League Two on Saturday.

Anderton won 30 caps for England and has also played for Portsmouth, Tottenham, Birmingham and Wolves in a career stretching back to 1990.

The midfielder was an unused substitute in the Cherries' 3-3 draw with Luton on Tuesday night and has now decided to call it a day after one final appearance, which will be the 569th of his club career.

He told the Bournemouth Echo: "It's a tough decision and Saturday will be a sad day.

"I've been lucky to come to Bournemouth and have really enjoyed it. It's been a great way to finish my career."