FABRICE MUAMBA RETIRED FROM SOCCER.

Bolton Wanderers midfielder Fabrice Muamba has retired from professional football as he continues to recover from suffering a cardiac arrest during a match.

The decision was made on the recommendation of his medical team, following extensive consultations with leading cardiologists both in the UK and mainland Europe.
In a statement issued by his club, Muamba said: "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 ongoing 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.
"Football has been my life since I was a teenage boy and it has given me so many opportunities.
"Above all else, I love the game and count myself very lucky to have been able to play at the highest level.
"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."
The midfielder suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch on March 17 during a match against Tottenham Hotspur.
His heart stopped beating for 78 minutes following his collapse and he spent a month at the London Chest Hospital before being discharged in April.