Sol Campbell has admitted that it took him a long time to accept his career was over.

The former England, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur defender called time on his playing days earlier today following a 19-year stint in professional football.

Reflecting on his decision, Campbell has revealed that he found it hard to accept that he will never play professional football again.

"It was a very, very difficult decision to come to because it's hard to let go, especially when you have been a top sportsman for a long, long time," the 37-year-old told Sky Sports News. "It comes to all athletes around the world, you get to the age where your mind, your body and your spirit says enough is enough. You have to hang up your boots and call it a day.

"To get to my decision, it takes a long time. It is difficult for me to be here and say that's it, I'm not playing football on a professional level again.

"It takes a long time because of the work I have done over the years and being at the top, dedication, it's not easy to get to this. That's why I was putting it off for a long time."

Campbell had not played since being released by Newcastle United last summer.