Southampton defender Claus Lundekvam has announced his retirement from the game after losing the battle to overcome a long-standing ankle injury.

The 35-year-old former Norway international underwent surgery on his ankle last week and was hoping to return to training this month, but a recurrence of the problem has forced him to admit defeat and hang up his boots.

"This is it for me, it's game over. It's very sad, but it hasn't really sunk in yet," he told BBC radio.

"I've prepared myself for this situation slightly over the last few weeks after a snapped the tendon in my ankle," he said.

"But it's very difficult to come to terms with. Maybe once the season is finished and the players have gone I'll find it hard to deal with."

Lundekvam - who won 38 international caps - made 357 league appearances for the Saints since joining from Brann in 1996.

Mike Hytner / Eurosport