Chelsea and former Italy midfielder Roberto di Matteo has been forced to retire due to injury. The 31-year-old former Lazio player has been struggling with serious injury since he suffered a triple leg fracture in September 2000.
"I have worked hard to try and get back but unfortunately I am still experiencing problems and I have had to face up to the sad decision that my playing days are over," said di Matteo.
Chelsea managing director Colin Hutchinson has paid tribute to the Italian and says he will always be welcome at Stamford Bridge. "This is devastating news and we feel for Roberto. He has worked long and hard to try and get back playing. He has endured a series of painful operations and slogged away on the training ground but cruelly the injury has beaten him.
"Not only was he an outstanding player for Chelsea but he is a genuine nice guy. He will rightly have a place in Chelsea's history and we wish him and his family well for the future. He will always be welcome at Chelsea. He is very much part of the club family," said Hutchinson.
Filed by Tom Grealis
