Andriy Shevchenko has announced his retirement from football in order to pursue a career in politics. The 35-year-old striker, who played for Ukraine at UEFA EURO 2012, revealed the news late last night in a statement released by his club, Dynamo Kiev.

"This will probably shock everyone," Shevchenko said on www.fcdynamo.kiev.ua. "My future will no longer be in football. I will give more information tomorrow (today) but I will be going into politics. I hope for your support."

Shevchenko earned his reputation as one of Europe's most prolific strikers in two successful spells with AC Milan. During his combined time with i Rossoneri, he scored 175 goals in 322 appearances and helped them lift the UEFA Champions League in 2002/03 and the Serie A title the following season.

His two stints with Milan sandwiched a three-year spell at Chelsea, although he struggled to make his mark at Stamford Bridge. Shevchenko also won five league trophies with Dynamo having started - and now ended - his career there and is the all-time leading goalscorer with Ukraine's national team, netting 48 goals in 111 matches.