Liverpool legend Lucas Leiva forced to retire due to heart condition

Lucas Leiva represented Liverpool for nearly a decade but has now been forced to step away from the game at the age of 36 at the advise of doctors due to a heart condition

Liverpool cult hero Lucas Leiva has announced his retirement from football during an emotional press conference.

The Brazilian has been forced to hang up his boots due to a heart condition. Announcing his gut-wrenching decision in a press conference held by his current club, Gremio, he broke down in tears and said: “It’s been a difficult period. I think this is the first time I’ve cried over this case.

“But I can only thank you. I’m ending where I’d like, not the way I’d like. I’m sure a new cycle will begin. I had a lot of hope that it could reverse, but it was not the case. My health comes first.”