Conor Coady, the former England international who started his career at Liverpool and went on to play for Everton, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33

Conor Coady has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33. The England international started his career at Liverpool, making two first-team appearances, before forging a fine career that saw him spend a dramatic season on loan with Everton, lead Wolves back to the Premier League and win 10 caps for his country.

The 33-year-old has been without a club since leaving Wrexham in August and is now working alongside former Everton midfielder Lee Carsley as assistant coach with the England Under-21s team.

Confirming his retirement in a video on Instagram video, St Helens-born Coady said: "So where do I start? From being a young boy at Rainford Rangers, to living every young lad’s dream and playing at the highest level. Eight clubs, 503 appearances, two promotions, a World Cup and a Euros. Ten England caps.

“Football is my life. It always has been. But everything at some point always comes to an end. I never, ever thought playing for Wolves in Europe or going with England to a World Cup this day would come.

“But honestly, the last couple of years have been tough. Not playing as much as I would have liked I have struggled with, as I live for playing footie.

“Coming through at my boyhood club and putting the red shirt on was one of the proudest days as no one could ever take that away from me.

“Sheffield United and Huddersfield were perfect clubs for me and made me grow. Then came Wolves, the place I needed and the place that made me a man. Eight of the best years, with the best people in a city that made me their own.

“My kids were born in old gold and you made Amie truly enjoy football. For that it will always be home.

“Then came Everton, when Frank (Lampard) gave me the opportunity to play for your great football club. The Bournemouth game, when you dragged us over the line, when we were on the floor. I’m very proud to say I played at Goodison.

“On to Leicester, then Wrexham, which were tough at times but filled with amazing people and supporters who care deeply about their club.

“Then Charlton, who put a smile back on my face. The truth is I’m ready now. I’ve given football everything and I will continue to do so in my next chapter.

“But it’s time for my incredible wife Amie, and four boys, to enjoy seeing daddy a little bit more.

“And my four boys; Henry, Freddie, Louis and Jesse. To say you’ve seen me play football and be there during my career, the memories we can talk about forever.

“Mum, dad and my brother Harrison. I can’t thank you enough for all the sacrifices you made, and helping me live out my dream.

“And onto James. You’re not just an agent, but you’re a friend. You’ve helped me throughout my career and I can’t wait to see what the next few years in store for us.

“Thank you to all the fans from every club I played for. With every shirt I put on, I gave it my all. It’s been an honour to say I played this unbelievable game. Thank you for everything. Coads.”

A number of football stars commented on the video including Everton midfielder Jack Grealish, who said: "Nearly got me going (crying emoji) unbelievable career and what a human!! Enjoy retirement brother."

Harry Maguire, the Manchester United defender and another old England team-mate of Coady's said: "Top career mate, pleasure to be a small part of it."

Ex-Everton defender Shane Duffy said: "What a career pal! Good luck with your new chapter no doubt you will smash that too well done mate."

Former boxing world champion Tony Bellew, a lifelong Evertonian, added: "Ah mate! What a player and an even better person! Wishing you every success for the future and you're a must as a pundit for the future!"