Former Carlisle United midfielder Tom Taiwo has announced his retirement from football at the age of 29.

Taiwo, who was with Hamilton Academical last season, said a series of injury-hit seasons were behind the decision.

Taiwo - who played for the Blues from 2009-12 - admitted it had been a "tough" call to end his playing days.

But the former Chelsea man said it was now time for a new chapter.

Writing on Instagram, Taiwo said: "Unfortunately, I have taken the tough decision to announce my retirement from football.

"Three injury-hit seasons in succession have left me struggling to perform, but more importantly, feel the way I want to.

"On and off the pitch, I have been fortunate to deal with great people at great clubs and without your help couldn't have fulfilled the career I have. Thank-you, I will always be grateful.

"Most importantly to the people that matter the most - my family. You've given me more support than I could ever ask for and for that and much more I love you all.

"Onto the next chapter - TT."

Taiwo made 144 appearances for the Blues, scoring seven goals, after joining from Chelsea, initially on loan and then permanently.

He was part of the United side that won the 2011 Johnstone's Paint Trophy at Wembley under Greg Abbott.

After leaving United he played for Hibernian, Falkirk and Hamilton. He reached the Scottish Cup Final with Falkirk in 2015 where the Bairns lost out to Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

Earlier in his career Taiwo made headlines after moving from Leeds to Chelsea along with fellow teenager Michael Woods, which led to a complaint from Elland Road chairman Ken Bates and an eventual £5m settlement.