Former Everton, Celtic and Real Madrid midfielder Thomas Gravesen has announced his retirement.

The 32-year-old ended his international career in 2006 after winning 66 caps and scoring five goals for Denmark, and has now hung up his boots for good.

"I have had fantastic years abroad. I played and lived in four countries. There are many people I need to thank," Gravesen said in a statement released by long-standing agent John Sivebaek.

"I would do it all over again if I had the opportunity.

"I am 32 years old - 33 in March - so age and health decides it for me. I choose to stop."

Sivebaek added: "It is always unfortunate when such a skilful footballer ends his career, but I hope that people respect the decision."

Gravesen joined Everton in 2000 from Hamburg and became a fans' favourite during his five years at Goodison Park before leaving for Real Madrid.

After a season at the Bernabeu, he switched to Celtic in 2006 but failed to establish himself and departed last summer after an unsuccessful two-year stint which saw him loaned back to Everton in 2007.