Current and former professional footballers have paid tribute to the career of Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher following the centre-back's decision to retire.

The 35-year-old has confirmed that he will hang up his boots at the end of the season after 26 years with the Merseyside club.

Read what Carragher's fellow professionals have had to say below:

"Just read Carra statement. Let's enjoy a few more months with him before he retires. It is amazing what he is done for LFC. #23"
Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva

"Jamie Carragher has been a great servant to Lfc. Great player and a top fella! Funny guy! Nutter when we were kids but management material now."
Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand

"What a servant Carra has been for Liverpool. A rare breed and it's been a privilege to play alongside, room with and be big mates with one of football's real men. I doubt we have heard the last of him. He has too much to offer the game to be away for long!"
Stoke City striker Michael Owen

"Jamie Carragher will hang up his boots at the end of the season. Those boots were worn by a player respected by everyone in the game."
Former England forward Gary Lineker

"Sad to hear Jamie Carragher set to retire at end of the season. An honour to have played with a Liverpool Great.A model pro to any young lad"
Ex-Liverpool striker Neil Mellor

"Carra retiring,what a legend and what a wonderful servant to our great club ,we won't see the likes of him again. RESPECT MATE"
Former Liverpool defender Phil Thompson

"I'm in shock,Carra to retire at the end of the season I'm lost for words(for once) Speak later on it"
Ex-Liverpool forward John Aldridge

"Sad day for Carra announcing his retirement. He'll be missed but he can be very proud of everything he's done for Liverpool.
Former Liverpool player and manager Kenny Dalglish