Gary Neville has announced his retirement from the game with immediate effect.
The veteran Manchester United full-back has not played since the New Year's Day victory over West Brom at the Hawthorns, when he was fortunate not to be dismissed for a professional foul on Graham Dorrans.
It was his 602nd appearance for the Red Devils. He also won 85 England caps.
"I have been a Manchester United fan all my life and fulfilled every dream I've ever had," he said.
"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.
"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 be a part of the team's achievements and the club's great success.
"There are so many people I want to thank and of course top of that list is Sir Alex Ferguson.
"He has given me so many opportunities and countless support over the last 20 years, he is truly one of the greatest managers and I have to thank him for that.
"There have also been so many great players that I have had the privilege to train and play along side. The experiences we've shared will be with me for the rest of my life.
"Also all the coaches I have played under from youth level right through to now, who have guided me through my playing days. And finally, the fans, who have always shown me unbelievable support, they know how special they are to me and this club.
"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."
It will be interesting to see what direction Neville's life now takes. He has long been touted as a potential coach at United and was mentioned as a possible successor to reserve team boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has returned to Norway to take charge at Molde.
However, in the aftermath of Andy Gray's abrupt departure from Sky, the 35-year-old has also been linked with the main pundit's job, even though his obvious allegiance to United would appear to present a problem to supporters of Liverpool and Manchester City in particular.
"Gary was the best English right-back of his generation," said Ferguson.
"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.
"His impact on the club in general has been huge; his presence in the dressing room and leadership qualities have been an asset to me as a manager.
"All the young players who have sought his advice on many matters, particularly on contract issues owe him a great debt.
"As a young boy he had the will and determination to succeed as a footballer and that character remained with him throughout his career which is the legacy he leaves every young player at Manchester United."
Neville becomes the second member of United's famed 'Class of 92' to call it a day following Nicky Butt's retirement from the game last season, though the latter made a surprise return to action with South China late last year.
The oldest member, Ryan Giggs, is still going strong and recently confirmed he had agreed another one-year contract extension.
But Neville's career has been blighted by injury over the last few years and it was obvious at the West Brom game, or the visit to Stoke in October when the full-back was equally fortunate to escape a red card, that his time at the top level was almost over.
"Gary has been a great servant to the club and we thank him for his loyalty and his contribution to the tremendous success we have enjoyed in his playing time here," said chief executive David Gill.
"I know from my many dealings with him over the years he always had the club's best interests at heart.
"So whilst this illustrious chapter in his career has finished, his experience, commitment and energy will ensure he will continue to play a part in the life of the club, whether on the coaching or the commercial side."
