After making over 430 appearances in his playing career, former West Bromwich Albion midfielder James Morrison has announced his retirement from the game at the age of 33.

The former Scotland international signed for West Brom in 2007, after making over 100 appearances for boyhood club Middlesbrough.

After a 12-year stay at The Hawthorns, Morrison established himself as a fans' favourite amongst the Baggies faithful, making 341 appearances for the West Midlands club.

Morrison scored 39 goals during his time at The Hawthorns, as well as making 49 appearances for the Scotland national side.

But after leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract at the end of last season, Morrison will stay at West Brom in some capacity - he will become a coach in their academy set-up.

After a long, established playing career, plenty of former players and teammates have sent Morrison their best wishes after making a big step in his career.

West Ham winger Robert Snodgrass and West Brom attacker Jon Leko, who is currently out on loan at Charlton Athletic, are among those...

The Verdict

This is probably the right time in his career for Morrison to call a day and hang up his boots - I was surprised that he didn't get a club after leaving West Brom, but this is the best move for him.

Plenty of players have become a coach after calling a day on their playing career, and Morrison will be excited at the prospects of becoming an established coach in the future.

Could he become the new manager of West Brom in the future? That's what most fans will be wanting in the long run.