FORMER Sheffield United star Kean Bryan has announced his retirement on his 27th birthday.
The ex-defender most recently played for West Brom following a spell at the Blades, where he made 13 Premier League appearances.
Bryan came through Manchester City's academy and then joined Bury before moving to Oldham and had a loan spell at Bolton.
He made 66 career league appearances but has been forced into an early retirement due to injury.
A knee injury limited him to just three appearances for West Brom since his arrival in 2021.
Bryan revealed he has been advised to stop playing because of the problem in a statement announcing his retirement.
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He wrote on Instagram: "Chapter 27… 🎈🙏🏽
"A year of new beginnings for me. I would like to announce my retirement from professional football. After two long years battling with my knee injury, unfortunately after medical advice it’s time to say goodbye to the game of football.
"Just a lad who grew up on a council estate in Gorton with dreams of one day being a professional footballer and that dream came true. To play in the Premier League and represent some of the biggest clubs in England is something I will always cherish and be proud of. 🙏🏽
"I want to thank everyone who helped me achieve my dream. My Mum and step Dad who are no longer with us, who drove up and down the country to support me from the age of 10, I will forever be grateful for everything you both done for me.
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"My two sisters and little brother who have always been my biggest fans.
"My fianceé who has been a rock for me in such a difficult period in my life, I will never be able to repay you for the support you give me. And of course my two boys who without knowing have made this difficult decision so much easier I love you both unconditionally ❤️
"I look forward to the next chapter in my life. Thank you everyone for your support over the years.
"Peace & Love, KB 🙏🏽"
Many of Bryan's former team-mates – including Fabian Delph, Oli McBurnie and Tommy Doyle – have wished him well after he hung up his boots.
Bryan has been in a relationship with former Coronation Street star Brooke Vincent, who played Sophie Webster, since 2016.
The couple are now engaged and have two sons together – Mexx, four and Monroe, two.
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