German midfielder Frings calls it quits

Former Germany midfielder Torsten Frings has announced his retirement from football.

The 36-year-old, who won 79 international caps and was part of the Germany team that reached the World Cup final in 2002, has brought down the curtain on a career in which he has represented Werder Bremen, Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich.

He joined MLS outfit Toronto FC in June 2011 and was appointed captain, but injuries limited his opportunities and he underwent surgery on his hip in September.

“During pre-season we discovered that my recovery would take longer than expected. I always want to do what’s best for the team and that is why I have decided to step away,” Frings told Toronto’s official website.