The Fulham goalkeeper Antti Niemi has announced his retirement from football. Although Niemi had planned to end his career at the end of his current contract, which runs out next summer, a wrist injury that would have prevented him from training for two months prompted the Finn to quit the game with immediate effect.

The 36-year-old, who was capped 67 times by his country, also played for Southampton, Rangers and Hearts, spending almost 11 years in the British game following his move from FC Copenhagen. He made the switch to Fulham in January 2006, appearing 62 times during his two-and-half years at Craven Cottage.

"I would like to thank everyone because it's really been a privilege playing in Britain," he said. "I don't think people here realise how wonderful the atmosphere is and what football means to people.

"When you come from abroad to a different culture, it really strikes you. The pressure is amazing; every single game feels like a big game. The atmosphere at games was one of my favourite things. Even if sometimes you'd hear things coming from behind the goal, it's fine. British people have a great sense of humour, they come to the games, support their teams and it really is special for any foreign player."

Niemi revealed that he hopes to be involved in coaching Finland at some point but intends to spend time with his family in the immediate future.