Arsenal goalkeeper Cech to retire at end of season

LONDON - Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech will retire at the end of the season after playing 15 years in the English Premier League.

The 36-year-old former Czech Republic international joined Arsenal in June 2015 from the London rivals Chelsea, who signed him from French club Rennes in July 2004.

"Having played 15 years in the Premier League and won every single trophy possible, I feel like I have achieved everything I set out to achieve," he said.

"I will continue to work hard at Arsenal to hopefully win one more trophy this season."

Arsenal said in a statement, "Everyone at Arsenal fully respects Petr Cech's decision to retire at the end of this season.

"Petr recently informed us of his decision. Like all football fans, we are sad about this, but completely understand and support Petr. We know Petr will continue to make a big contribution in the future, whatever he decides to do.

The club added, "Petr has been an extraordinary player during his 15 years in the Premier League and an exemplary professional on and off the pitch. He has been a fantastic ambassador for Arsenal, Chelsea and the Czech Republic and will always hold a special place in the affections of football fans around the world."

Cech suffered a skull fracture in October 2006 after a collision with Reading's Stephen Hunt. He was out for three months and has since worn a protective headguard during games.

He added: "This is my 20th season as a professional player and it has been 20 years since I signed my first professional contract, so it feels like the right time to announce that I will retire.

"I am looking forward to seeing what life holds for me off the pitch."

Cech helped Chelsea win 13 trophies in 11 seasons, including one Champions League and four Premier League titles.