Former Hearts defender Christophe Berra announces retirement from football

Former Hearts defender Christophe Berra has announced his retirement from football.

The 37-year-old said that it was “far from an easy decision” to hang up his boots.

Berra became a player-coach for Raith Rovers last month after signing a two-year contract with the club 2021.

But in a statement released on Tuesday, he said he feels it is the “right time to step aside”.

The defender made 263 appearances for Hearts over two spells lasting a combined 11 years.

It brings to an end a career in which the defender also played for Wolves, Ipswich Town, Dundee, and Raith Rovers.

Berra also collected 41 caps for Scotland between 2008 and 2017, scoring four goals for his country.

He said: “This was far from an easy decision, but after thinking long and hard, together with the high standards that I set myself on a daily basis, I have decided that the time has come to hang up my boots.

“For the benefit of the team, I felt it was the right time to step aside and allow the club to bring in some new players to drive the team forward.

“I have ambitions to return to football in the months ahead but for the time being, I will enjoy some quality time with my family.

“Last but not least, a huge thanks to the players, the manager, the staff and the club, I have enjoyed every minute being in your company, on and off the pitch and I wish you all the very best going forward.

“Finally, I would like to give a special thanks to all the rovers fans who welcomed me to their club, it has been an honour and privilege.

“Thank you.”