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'It's time to start following the mind, not the heart': Former Liverpool centre-back Martin Skrtel retires at the age of 37 citing health reasons after a 21-year playing career

Former Liverpool centre-back Martin Skrtel has called time on his 21-year long playing career citing health reasons in an emotional announcement.

Skrtel spent eight years on Merseyside and formed a key part of two title-challenging sides, in 2008/09 under Rafa Benitez and 2013/14 under Brendan Rodgers.

The Slovakian made 320 appearances in total for the Reds.

Martin Skrtel (pictured) has called time on his 21-year long playing career citing health reasons

However, health reasons appeared to have caught up with the former Slovakia international and he has been forced into an emotional retirement.

In an emotional press conference, via Sport SK, Skrtel said: 'By coming to Trnava, I fulfilled my dream.