Glasgow, Scotland (My Sportsbook) - Celtic defender John Kennedy has announced his retirement from the game after failing to recover from a string of knee problems.

The 26-year-old came through the youth team system at Parkhead and made his first-team debut almost a decade ago.

His injury problems started when he suffered a serious knee ligament injury in his Scotland debut against Romania in March 2004, a problem that kept him sidelined for three years.

Soon after he returned to first-team action, Kennedy twisted his knee in a Champions League game against Shakhtar Donetsk and has not played for the Bhoys since.

Kennedy, who featured in 16 matches for Norwich City during a loan spell at Carrow Road last season, said: "It's with great regret that I've made this decision. However, given the medical advice which I received, this is the right decision.

"Clearly, this is very disappointing for me and my family. However, this is something I will accept and come to terms with.

"I've enjoyed my time with Celtic immensely and I'd like to thank everyone at the club and all the Celtic fans for all the support and backing they've given me during my time."

(Courtesy of sportbox.tv)