England's Muamba quits football

London, Aug 15 (IANS/RIA Novosti) English footballer Fabrice Muamba announced his retirement from football Wednesday, after suffering a heart attack during a match last season.

The England youth international collapsed during Bolton Wanderers' game against Tottenham Hotspur March 17 following which his heart stopped for more than an hour.

He was discharged from hospital in April and recently played football on holiday with friends, but said doctors have advised him to quit the sport.

"While the news is devastating, I have much to be thankful for," he said on the Bolton website.

"I thank God that I am alive."

Muamba said he had hoped to resume his career.

"Since suffering my heart attack and being discharged from hospital, I have remained utterly positive in the belief I could one day resume my playing career and play for Bolton Wanderers once again," he said.

Congolese-born Muamba has played for England at every youth level. He joined Bolton from Birmingham in 2008 and has made 148 appearances for the club.

--IANS/RIA Novosti

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