FORMER Oxford United defender Johnny Mullins has announced his retirement from football.

The 33-year-old has not played since New Year's Day, the last of his 24 games this season for Cheltenham Town.

He told the Robins' website: "I’ve been fortunate to play in some very good teams under some really good managers and with some really good players.

"I’ll look back on my football career with a lot of pride and I’ve taken a lot of joy out of the people that I’ve met.

Also read: Former U's defender Robbie Cundy signs for Bristol City

"If I started thanking people it would be endless."

In total the former Reading trainee made more than 550 appearances for seven clubs.

He won three promotions, including at United in 2015/16, when he started 39 games in Sky Bet League Two as Michael Appleton's side finished second.

Mullins also captained the side for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final at Wembley, where the U's lost 3-2 to Barnsley.

Oxford Mail:

  • Johnny Mullins (left) celebrates Callum O'Dowda's goal at Wembley  Picture: David Fleming

He made 149 appearances for the club, initially on loan from Rotherham United before returning in 2013 for a three-year spell.