Fabrice Muamba retires from football at 24

Fabrice Muamba, for those who don't remember or know him, is the Bolton Wanderers midfielder who collapsed during a match ion the 17th of March this year, and his heart then stopped beating for 78 minutes. He spent four weeks in the hospital and doctors said his recovery was a miracle. Five months after the incident, he has been advised to quit football for good. See the statement he released yesterday below...

Since suffering my heart attack and being discharged from hospital, I have remained utterly positive in the belief I could one day resume my playing career and play for Bolton Wanderers once again.

As part of my on-going recovery, last week I travelled to Belgium to seek further medical advice from a leading cardiologist. But the news I received was obviously not what I had hoped it would be and it means I am now announcing my retirement from professional football. While the news is devastating, I have much to be thankful for. I thank God that I am alive and I pay tribute once again to the members of the medical team who never gave up on me.

I would also like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career and the Bolton fans who have been incredible. I am blessed to have the support of my family and friends at this time."

I love the game and count myself very lucky to have been able to play at the highest level.