Shao Jiayi, veteran player of Beijing Guo'an, speaks at a news conference for his retirement in Beijing, October 29, 2015. [Photo: Xinhua]

Beijing Guo'an veteran Shao Jiayi has officially announced his retirement from football.

The 35-year-old midfielder gave a tearful goodbye to the game this Thursday.

"Since 1998, I have been playing 17-years in football. 17 years is a long time for a player. Because of the effects of long-term injuries, including to my knees and my back, I don't want my family to worry about me any more. So I've decided that 2015 will be my last professional season. The match against Guangzhou Evergrande this coming weekend will be my last. After that, I will retire. Thank you all."

Shao started his football career with Guo'an at the age of 18.

He made the national squad 2-years later and represented China in the 2002 World Cup.

Shao joined Bundesliga side Munich 1860 on loan in 2003 to start a 9-year spell in Germany.

He returned to Beijing 4-years ago to finish out his career with Guo'an.

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