Ex-Bristol City, Cardiff City and Middlesbrough and midfielder sends message to clubs after retirement

Lee Tomlin has announced his decision to retire from football, ending a 17-year playing career.

The 33-year-old who joined Doncaster Rovers earlier this summer, is having to retire because of injury.

Tomlin revealed to BBC Sport that he had to take painkillers to get him through the pain barrier and wanted to play for as long as possible, but time has taken its toll on the midfielder.

Announcing the decision on a social media post, Tomlin said: “After much consideration I have decided to retire from the beautiful game. I’ve been fortunate enough to have the career I dreamt about every night as a kid and have nothing but fond memories and love for the game.

"It’s been a rollercoaster at times, but I wouldn’t change a thing. "A big thanks to all my clubs and the players and staff that I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside.

“And of course, a huge thank you to the amazing fans. Without your support, it wouldn’t have been the experience it was. "Looking forward to the next chapter, thank you!”

Tomlin had a playing career that took him from the non-league with Rushden & Diamonds to the Premier League with AFC Bournemouth, playing for a host of clubs. He had a season-and-a-half as a player at Bristol City.

He initially joined on a season-long loan in January 2016 and scored six goals, as well as earning two assists in the 28 matches of his initial loan spell.

Tomlin’s loan spell did enough to earn him a permanent deal at Ashton Gate and he continued his form into his first permanent season. He got seven goals and six assists in his one-and-only full campaign as a Robins player.

He made the controversial move across the Severn Bridge to join rivals Cardiff City for an undisclosed fee, but failed to settle in South Wales.

His best campaign for the Bluebirds was in 2019/20 when he played 33 times, getting eight goals and 10 assists.