Villa are sad to announce Martin Laursen's retirement from football.

The club captain made the decision after being faced with another lengthy spell on the sidelines.

He elected to hang up his boots rather than undergo another major operation - this time on his right knee.

The retirement of the lionheart defender will be a huge loss to the players, the manager and the fans.

Stay tuned to www.avfc.co.uk and AVTV for more.