Jason Roberts: Reading confirm striker will retire from football due to hip injury at the end of the season

Roberts has been forced to call it a day on medical grounds having not played since December 2012

Reading striker Jason Roberts has been forced to retire due to a long-standing hip injury (Getty Images)

Reading have confirmed that striker Jason Roberts will be retiring from football when his contract ends this summer, bringing to an end a 17 year professional career.

Jason last played in December 2012, but has been forced to retire from playing on medical grounds following his long-standing hip injury.

The 36-year-old will continue to work in the local community on behalf of the club for the remainder of his contract, and Reading passed on their best wishes for his future career.

Roberts said, "I've had an amazing 17 years playing professional football and I'm proud of everything I've achieved and grateful for all that I've experienced.

“I've played in every division and I have fond memories of my time at each and every club I have represented, and also playing internationally for Grenada.

"I am now looking forward to the future and having time to focus on my charity The Jason Roberts Foundation. I am also excited about continuing my media work and having recently passed my corporate governance exams, I'm looking forward to exploring this area further.

"I have met many fantastic people during my time as a player and I am grateful to the game for the opportunities it has given me.

"I'd also like to thank the Reading fans and staff - particularly the physio team - for their continued support during my time here, especially through my recent rehab."