Leeds United legend Luciano Becchio has sent a message to his former teammate Jermaine Beckford, after he announced his retirement from football.

The 35-year-old announced his decision with a message on his personal Instagram account on Tuesday morning, admitting that injuries had forced his retirement from the game.

Beckford scored 84 goals in 147 appearances for Leeds and was adored by the fans at Elland Road.

The striker provided Leeds fans with some memorable moments over the years, scoring the winner against Manchester United in the FA Cup and the goal that sealed their promotion to the Championship in 2010.

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Since leaving Elland Road in 2010, Beckford has played for the likes of Everton, Leicester City, Huddersfield Town, Bolton Wanderers, Preston North End and most recently Bury.

Plenty of fans and former teammates have taken to social media to wish Beckford all the best for his retirement, including former Leeds striker Becchio.

Becchio - who scored 86 goals in 219 appearances for Leeds between 2008 and 2013 - sent a message to Beckford on his personal Instagram story, wishing him all the best for his future and describing it as an honour to play alongside him.

Becchio posted a photo of the pair celebrating after Leeds' famous 1-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford in the FA Cup in 2010, where Beckford scored the winner at the Stretford End.

The Verdict

Beckford was an important player for Leeds and a fans' favourite at Elland Road. It's a shame that injuries have forced his retirement from football, but he can look back on what was a very good career.

Becchio will understand what Beckford did for Leeds and I'm sure the striker will appreciate this message from his former teammate.

The pair will no doubt be pleased with the start that Leeds have made to the current Championship season and will hope that the current players can achieve success this term.