The West Ham goalkeeper battled against testicular cancer last year and, although he beat the illness, doctors have told him he can no longer play professionally.

The 34-year-old former Canadian international said: 'It is with great regret that I have been advised to retire from football, but my medical advisers have told me I will be unable to maintain the necessary level of fitness to compete at the game's highest level.

'I would like to thank everyone at West Ham United for their generous support and the sensitive way in which they dealt with my problem.

'I would also like to thank the Professional Footballers' Association for all their support in handling my premature retirement from the game.'

Forrest worked for Canadian television during the recent World Cup and hopes continue working in the media.

He will be rewarded with a testimonial game by the Hammers, who he joined from Ipswich in the summer of 1997 for £500,000.

Paul Aldridge, managing director of West Ham, said: 'Craig was a popular figure with the players, management and staff at the club and will be greatly missed. We wish him continued good health and every success for the future.'