Geordan Murphy has won numerous trophies with the Tigers © Getty Images

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Leicester and Ireland fullback Geordan Murphy has announced he will retire at the end of the season.

The news sees Murphy bring down the curtain on his career which has seen him be a part of the Leicester side that scooped seven Premiership titles between 1999 and the present day. And Murphy also won back-to-back Heineken Cups in 2001 and 2002.

On the Test scene, Murphy won 72 caps for Ireland and was a key cog in their Grand Slam-winning side in 2009. He was also part of the 2005 British & Irish Lions squad for their tour to New Zealand and started the final Test against the All Blacks.

But with age against him, Murphy, 35, has decided this will be his last season and he will hope to end the campaign on a victorious note with Leicester still in the mix for the Premiership title. Murphy told Sky Sports: "I knew myself last week before the London Irish game that it was probably the last time I'd lead the team out at Welford Road.

"It really was emotional; I was choking up as I ran onto the field. Sixteen years is a long time to be doing something, especially in the sporting world. I've been lucky with the successes I've had and the guys that I've played with. I have a lot of fond memories."

Very sad day to see my best mate Geordan Murphy retire from the game. Absolute legend of a bloke and the best player I've ever played with!

— Andy Goode (@AndyGoode10) May 7, 2013

Murphy, who made 316 appearances for the Tigers and scored 90 tries, will stay at the club but in a backroom capacity. He added: "With the way my knee is at the minute I didn't have the confidence to sign on as a full-time player next year.

"I was contemplating playing part-time but with the way the budgets are the club, there was no just no room in the salary cap. The club then approached me and asked me to join the coaching staff. I thought it was the right time to go. I've been very lucky that the club have been loyal and offered me a chance to stay involved."

Leicester and Ireland star Geordan Murphy to retire at end of season. A huge thank you to Geordie for the great days in green. #irishrugby

— Irish Rugby (@irfurugby) May 7, 2013

© Getty Images

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