Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville has retired with immediate effect.

The 35-year-old revealed his decision on Wednesday, bringing to a close a 602-game career at Old Trafford that included a Champions League title, eight English Premier League trophies, three FA Cups, two League Cups, the Intercontinental Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

Spending almost two decades at the club, Neville emerged among a crop of United youngsters that also included current Reds Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes as well as brother Phil Neville, Nicky Butt and David Beckham.

The uncompromising right-back won 85 caps for England between 1995 and 2007, playing in two World Cup and three European Championships campaigns.

Injury had restricted Neville to just three Premier League appearances this term, forcing the veteran to call time on his playing career.

“I have been a Manchester United fan all my life and fulfilled every dream I’ve ever had. Obviously I am disappointed that my playing days are at an end, however it comes to us all, and it’s knowing when that time is and for me that time is now,” he said.

“I have played in the most incredible football teams, playing with some of the best players in the world as well as against them and I have been lucky to have been part of the team’s achievements and the club’s great success.”

“I am looking forward to new experiences and the club will always be a part of my life going forward. However, the most important thing now is for the club to continue with the success that is synonymous with Manchester United and I will be supporting them all the way, as a fan.”

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson paid tribute to the mark Neville had left at the club, heaping praise on his long-term charge.

“Gary was the best English right back of his generation,” Ferguson said.

“He is an example to any young professional; hard-working, loyal and intelligent. As a United fan born and bred, his fantastic career at Old Trafford has cemented his place in the affection of the club’s supporters everywhere.”