Source: Team_Talk
Villa's Laursen hangs up his boots
The Danish defender has announced that he will be retiring from football with immediate effect.
He has been plagued by knee problems for many years and the latest setback left him facing a decision about whether to carry on.
Laursen could have undergone another major operation - this time on his right knee - in an attempt to return to action but has opted to hang up his boots.
"Villa are sad to announce Martin Laursen's retirement from football," a statement on the club's website read. "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 lion-hearted defender will be a huge loss to the players, manager and fans."
The 31-year-old's retirement will leave a huge void to fill in the Villa defence as he has been one of the club's most consistent performers in recent seasons.
He moved to Villa Park from AC Milan in 2004 and went on to establish himself as one of the strongest centre-backs in the Premier League.
Laursen has had to endure many spells on the sidelines but it was hoped earlier this season he had finally overcome his problems.
A series of excellent performances helped Villa mount a challenge for a UEFA Champions League spot before he was struck down again.
Martin O'Neill's men have struggled to keep as many clean sheets in Laursen's absence and will finish either fifth or sixth in the league.
Laursen, who made 53 appearances for Denmark before retiring from international football earlier this year, also spent time with homeland club Silkeborg and Italian sides Hellas Verona and Parma earlier in his career.
Middlesbro' v Aston Villa Half-time/Full-time: Aston Villa / Aston Villa 3/1
