Liam Rosenior is "sad" to be retiring but "as excited as a child" by his new position as Albion under-23s assistant.

He will combine the job with a punditry role for Sky Sports.

The Argus website revealed earlier this morning Rosenior's decision to hang up his boots and move into coaching.

He said in a statement: "Undoubtedly, it is a sad day for any professional footballer when the time comes to stop playing. However, I have enjoyed a long career and feel privileged to have earned a living doing something that I love.

"I am so lucky to have lived my childhood dream and I am now ready for the next chapter.

"There are a great many people and clubs to thank. Firstly, to every member of my wonderful family, most notably mum, dad, my brother Daron, my wife Erika and my four beautiful children: your love, belief and support was always a source of huge strength for me – I hope I made you proud.

"To the managers, coaches, players, backroom staff and supporters of every club I have had the good fortune to represent, I sincerely thank you for the lessons, happiness, memories and incredible support I have received in my career. I will never forget it.

"Now I am just as excited as I was as a child. I am embarking on a new chapter in my life with a new coaching role at Brighton and new media analyst role with Sky Sports.

"This could not have been possible without the support of all of the staff at this special club, but namely Tony Bloom, Chris Hughton, John Morling and Simon Rusk for giving me this opportunity. I will do everything I can to repay your faith in my future as a coach. I cannot wait to continue the journey with this fantastic club."

Rosenior (below) helped out under-23s coach Simon Rusk on an ad-hoc basis last season, when he also worked occasionally for Sky Sports and wrote a column for The Guardian.

The Argus: He has completed his UEFA pro licence and the 34-year-old is relishing the next stage of his career.

"As sportsmen, you are conditioned to never give up and to keep looking ahead for the next challenge," he said.

"For me, this will be to use the knowledge I have gained from the special people throughout my career and help nurture the next generation of footballers at Brighton, as well as providing my perspective of the game as a pundit. I am hugely excited by both and cannot wait to start."