Mushtaq Ahmed admits he could be forced to retire because of persistent injury problems.

The 38-year-old will make a decision on his future next week after discussions with the surgeon who has performed two sepArate operations on his right knee this season.

Mushtaq bowled 51 overs in his latest comeback against Lancashire a fortnight ago but his knee became swollen and he was force to pull out of the current Championship match with Surrey at the Oval.

He said: “I want to carry on playing beyond this season but I must also feel I am able to give 100% commitment to the team.

“I will make a decision next week after I have spoken to the surgeon and seen how my rehab goes, but perhaps I am getting the sign that it is time to stop.

“I am a very proud man. I want to be able to give everything to the team, the club and the supporters.

“I want to bowl when my captain asks me and I don’t want to hide in the field. It is very frustrating that I have not been able to do that this season.”

Mushtaq has played just seven games in all competitions after having surgery to repair ligament damage in May and July.

He added: “I felt good in the Lancashire game but as soon as it was over my knee was very sore again and the surgeon told me I had to rest.

“But I had to play to see how it reacted because matches are totally different to working in the nets.”

Mushtaq has been the most successful overseas player in Sussex’s history.

Now in his sixth season with the county, he has been the leading wicket-taker for the past five years and helped the county win three Championships and two oneday trophies.