The time has come to officially end my days playing professional football. After taking a few months off to enjoy a holiday with the family and reflect, I've realised I am ready to retire. Of course there has been a temptation to carry on, but since playing my final game for Sunderland in May I have had it in my mind I wasn't going to play on. I just wanted to be sure it was the correct decision. For me to finish after my second and final spell at the club where it all started, the one I supported as a boy, and where I loved going with my mam and dad, just seems right. Now I can look forward. I would like to thank my mam and dad for everything they did for me and my sisters - helping me to fulfil a dream. And, of course, I want to thank my wife and two daughters for all of their support throughout a career which has led me to play for clubs with great history. The memories I have from playing for Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Ipswich will live with me forever. Those promotion celebrations with Sunderland and Middlesbrough were incredible and I am proud to have played in the Premier League for both. I have worked with some fantastic people, some top players and under brilliant managers. I loved wearing the colours of all the clubs I played for and it was an honour to wear the England shirt from schoolboy all the way up to Under-21s. Who knows what the future holds but I am excited about it. I will miss playing but whether I go into coaching, the media or even something else I know I can draw on my experiences and help others in the future. Once again, thank you to everyone who has helped me along the way. #giveyourall