Anita Asante: Ex-England defender announces retirement after 19-year career

Former England international Anita Asante will retire at the end of the season following a 19-year career at the top of the women's game.

The Aston Villa defender's final game is set to be against rivals Birmingham City in the Women's Super League.

The 36-year-old has had a hugely successful career, winning 71 caps for England and representing Great Britain at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

She began her career at Arsenal before joining Chelsea and then moving abroad.

Asante's greatest achievement was arguably her role in Arsenal's quadruple-winning season in 2007, when the club became the only women's team from England to win the Champions League.

• 'Ally and activist' Asante on 19-year football journey

"When I look back, I'm really proud of what I've been able to do and what I've been able to experience throughout those years," Asante told BBC Sport.

"It's been an unbelievable journey. I'm so proud to have been a part of all that and to have shared it with so many amazing players and coaches. I've learnt so much from them over the years.

"It was a difficult decision to make, but I feel very lucky that I've been able to decide and be in control of what I want to do in this current point in my life."

Asante also won five league titles and four FA Cups during her time at Arsenal between 2003 and 2008.

She spent three years playing in the United States before leaving Sky Blue FC to join Swedish side Goteborg in 2012, making 41 appearances across two seasons.

Asante later switched to FC Rosengard, also competing in the Swedish Damallsvenskan league, before moving back to Chelsea in 2018.

The respected centre-back made her senior international debut against Iceland in 2004, after captaining the England under-19s, and went on to play in five major tournaments, as well as the Olympic Games.

'A hero of our game' - reaction

Chelsea and England forward Fran Kirby: Some people forget that women's football has been growing in this country for many years and it's because of people like @NicenNeetz that we now are in a position to excel and live our dreams as professional footballers. Thank you Neets, congratulations on an amazing career.

Arsenal and England defender Leah Williamson: Congratulations on an unbelievable career Neetz. Used to love watching you when I was growing up at Arsenal & now honoured to have shared a pitch with you!! All the best in your next step!

Aston Villa midfielder Remi Allen: From being a 16-year-old aspiring to be like you, to having one of the greatest honours of going to battle with you week in week out! The game is in a better place cuz of you & I can't wait to see you smash your next challenge! Thank you for everything.

Chelsea and England defender Millie Bright: An amazing player, the best team-mate you could ask for @NicenNeetz. Thank you for all that you have done and your words of wisdom, an honour to share the pitch with you and some unforgettable times. You're a hero of our game and will be truly missed.

West Ham midfielder Kate Longhurst: I remember first seeing you play for England and was blown away by how good you were! Strong, technical, read the game so well. But also a voice for the minorities in football. You've brought the game into a much stronger position.