Former Republic of Ireland midfielder Andy Townsend has hung up his boots.

He has announced his retirement as a player and now wants to move into management.

Townsend, nearly 37, made 70 appearances for the Republic and was captain for many years.

He also had a great domestic football career with Southampton, Norwich, Chelsea, Aston Villa, Middlesbrough and West Brom.

Townsend left West Brom this week after reaching an agreement over the final 12 months of his contract.

Flattered

Albion manager Gary Megson wanted to keep Townsend and even offered him a coaching role.

But Townsend turned down it down, stating he wanted to pursue his own managerial career.

Townsend said: "I was very flattered by Albion's offer.

"I thought long and hard about it but I just felt that if I am going to go down the road of management I am going to have to do things my own way."