Former Brighton & Hove Albion defender Liam Rosenior has announced his retirement from playing to take up punditry and coaching roles.

The 34-year-old was released by Brighton earlier this summer following three seasons at the Amex Stadium, making 46 league appearances - just three of those in the top flight.

Rosenior will now embark on a new chapter, having been unveiled as an expert analyst for Sky Sports' coverage of the English Football League, while also working as an assistant coach to Simon Rusk with Brighton's Under-23s side.

"Undoubtedly, it is a sad day for any professional footballer when the time comes to stop playing," he said in a statement released on Twitter. "However, I have enjoyed a long career and feel privileged to have earned a living doing something that I love. I am so lucky to have lived my childhood dream and I am now ready for the next chapter.

"There are a great many people and clubs to thank. Firstly, to every member of my wonderful family, most notably Mum, Dad, my brother Daron, my wife Erika and my four beautiful children: your love, belief and support was always a source of huge strength for me. I hope I made you proud.

"To the managers, coaches, players, backroom staff and supporters of every club I have had the good fortune to represent, I sincerely thank you for the lessons, happiness, memories and incredible support I have received in my career. I will never forget it. Now I am just as excited as I was as a child. I am embarking on a new chapter in my life with a new coaching role at Brighton and new media analyst role with Sky Sports."

Rosenior also represented Bristol City, Fulham, Torquay United, Reading, Ipswich Town and Hull City during his 16-year professional playing career.