Scotland hero officially RETIRES with emotional post as ‘little lad from the East End’ hints at career change

ROBERT SNODGRASS has signed off on his 20-year playing career with an emotional post on social media.

The 36-year-old former Scotland international has been out of the game since leaving Hearts at the end of last season.

Kenny Ramsay - The Sun Glasgow

Robert Snodgrass leads the way at Scotland training[/caption]

Kenny Ramsay - The Sun Glasgow

Robert Snodgrass in action[/caption]

He’s previously graced massive clubs like Leeds United, West Ham, Aston Villa and West Brom – not to mention racking up 28 caps for Scotland.

And in an emotional statement, he said he would be focusing on giving his knowledge and help to the next generation.

Namechecking agents SMI World, it seems likely that his first steps will be in agency or coaching.

“After 20 years of playing professional football I have officially retired and decided to call it day and hang the boots up.

“A little lad from the east end of Glasgow got to live his childhood dream for 20 years playing at 10 great clubs, meeting amazing people and building relationships with staff and people around those clubs, getting to represent my country, playing over 600+ games scoring over 100+goals and 100+ assists is something I wouldn’t of never imagined doing, then getting told in 2014 I might never play football again after a career ending knee injury to then come back and play another 250+ games is something I am grateful for.

“Big thank you to my family and friends and my agents @SMi_World for supporting me and being there, I wouldn’t have played for so long if I didn’t have the support of you all.

“Thank you to my team mates and coaches.

“Lastly a huge thank you to the supporters who drove me forward and supported me through good and bad times.

“I always tried to play for the badge and what that meant to the fans and the history and traditions of your football club, also knowing the money you paid to come and watch the least you deserved was a minimum of hard work and I hope I showed you that.

“I will miss this beautiful game but after the last 6 months it’s time to give my knowledge and help to the next generation.”

Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page