Source: Daily_Mail
Patrik Berger forced to hang up his boots as knee problems get the better of ex-Liverpool star
Former Liverpool midfielder Patrik Berger has retired from football at the age of 36 due to persistent knee problems. [LNB]Berger, who spent seven years at Anfield before moving on to Portsmouth and Aston Villa, signed a two-year contract with Sparta Prague in May 2008 but injury has forced him to hang up his boots. [LNB]Sparta coach Jozef Chovanec said: 'Patrik told me yesterday, "It's over. My knee doesn't support the burden anymore". [LNB] Curtain falls: Berger's playing days are over due to injuries[LNB]'We have to deal with it. Thank you Patrik for everything you have done for Sparta and the entire Czech football.'[LNB] Berger, who also had a loan spell at Stoke during an 11-year spell in England, has not been able to make an appearance for Sparta since August 8. [LNB]The Czech international won 44 caps and was a key part of the team which reached the Euro 96 final, where they lost 2-1 to Germany. [LNB]Berger scored a penalty to put the Czechs in front in the final, before two Oliver Bierhoff goals won the match for Germany. [LNB] EXCLUSIVE: Birmingham City target Ryan Babel wants to be a winner at Liverpool Chamakh in Liverpool talks as Atletico star Rodriguez edges closer to Anfield Treadmill toughens for Torres as striker works overtime in recovery battleCompetition: Win tickets for Liverpool v Tottenham - courtesy of 188BETLIVERPOOL FC
