FORMER Burnley skipper Steven Caldwell has announced his retirement at the age of 34.

Caldwell was the Clarets’ captain when they secured promotion to the Premier League in 2009 and has been playing in the MLS with Toronto FC.

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He will now become director of corporate development with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, the club's franchise owners.

Caldwell said: “It’s with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement from the game I love.

“Football has been my life since a very young age and I appreciate the opportunity I’ve had to live my dreams.

“I would like to thank all my team-mates and coaches I’ve learned from along the way. Some friendships and bonds I have made that will last forever.

“Newcastle, Blackpool, Bradford, Leeds, Sunderland, Burnley, Wigan, Birmingham and Toronto. All magnificent clubs. It was an honour to wear your shirt.

“I hope the fans appreciated the pride I felt pulling on their jersey.”

Toronto general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said: “Steven Caldwell is a true professional in every sense of the word and has played an important role at Toronto FC since his arrival. We appreciate his endless contributions to the club.

“He will be missed on the pitch, but we are all very excited that Steven will be remaining with MLSE on the business side and continuing to be a part of the future of Toronto FC.

"I know personally Steve loves this club, and he can now express the passion and commitment we are used to seeing on the field in another capacity within the organisation.”