Nemanja Vidic: Former Manchester United captain retires with immediate effect

The 34-year-old central defender was without a club after terminating his contract with Internazionale by mutual consent earlier this month

Former Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic says farewell to Old Trafford in 2014 (Getty Images)

Former Manchester United centre-back Nemanja Vidic has retired from professional football.

The 34-year-old central defender was without a club after terminating his contract with Internazionale by mutual consent earlier this month.

Vidic signed for United for £7million in 2006 and subsequently won five Premier League titles, three League Cups and the Champions League during a nine-year spell at Old Trafford.

The Serbian will be fondly remembered as one of club’s best defenders, having formed half of an impressive central-defensive partnership with Rio Ferdinand.

He was named club captain at the start of the 2010/11 season, a position he held until his departure for Serie A four years later.

"The time has come for me to hang up my boots," he said in a statement released by United’s official website. "The injuries I have had in the last few years have taken their toll.

"I would like to thank all the players I have played with, all the managers and staff I have worked with, and say a big 'thank you' to the fans for their support over the years."

Vidic began his career with Red Star Belgrade, where he was sent on loan to Spartak Subotica. In 2004, he joined Spartak Moscow, where he spent a further two years.

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