Former Everton and Birmingham City striker James Vaughan has retired from football at the age of 32.

Vaughan became the youngest man to net in the Premier League for the Toffees, scoring against Crystal Palace when he was 16 years and 271 days old.

A series of injuries meant he never quite fulfilled his potential, and he has decided not to pursue his playing career any further.

The Tranmere striker told the club's official website: "I think you get to a point when mentally and physically you know it's time.

"I've been thinking about it for a few months now and after the recent injuries, it just feels like now is the right time to move on to the next chapter of my life.

"It was a really difficult decision to make. Coming to Tranmere was perfect for me at this stage of my career and I've loved every minute of it.

"The club, the fans and everyone around the place has treated me incredibly. The hardest part about retiring was knowing I wouldn't be playing for Tranmere next season."