Romario has hung up his boots at the age of 42.

The former Brazilian striker claims to have scored 1000 goals during his career, 56 of those in 73 appearances for his country. He was named world player of the year in 1994.

Romario began his career with Brazilian side Vasco da Gama and also played for Barcelona, PSV Eindhoven and Valencia.

“These last 20 years for me have been very positive,” he said. “To be honest, I’m stopping because I don’t see myself in any shape to continue playing.

“I haven’t played since November, I’ve put on three or four kilos since then and, at this age, it’s difficult to get back to fitness.”

After making his debut for Brazil in 1987 he played in the 1990 and 1994 World Cups, scoring five goals in his country’s success in the latter tournament in the USA.

As well as four stints with Vasco, including five games as player-coach earlier this year, he also played for Brazilian clubs Flamengo and Fluminese and abroad with Al Sadd in Qatar, Miami FC and Australian side Adelaide United.

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