Tottenham Hotspur captain Jenna Schillaci has announced her retirement from football at the age of 36.

The defender played 12 seasons at Spurs and was part of the club to earn triple promotions to end up in the Women’s Super League.

Schillaci debuted for Spurs at the age of 16 before playing small spells at Queens Park Rangers and Enfield Town.

Since returning in 2009, she has made over 200 appearances for the club and scored ten goals.

She said: "It’s been a difficult decision for me to make and it doesn’t feel real, but the time feels right for me now to hang up my boots.

“I feel unbelievably proud of what I have achieved while at Spurs and my journey has felt like a dream. Being a Spurs fan, from going to watch the team when I was a young girl and dreaming of playing at White Hart Lane, which I got to do, I am very grateful and honoured to have been given so many amazing opportunities at the Club and to have captained the team for all these years. 

“There’s been so many stand-out moments for me during my time here including winning the league at The Lane, securing promotion to the WSL and leading the team out against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge for our first game in the top flight. 

"My family have been on this amazing journey with me and I know they are extremely proud of me too, I wouldn’t be here without their support. I feel very grateful that I got to live my dream at the Club, and I hope that my journey can inspire the next generation.”

Chairman Daniel Levy said: "We should like to express our thanks to Jenna for her many years of loyal service and wish her the best of luck in the future. She remains a valued member of the Spurs family.”