Alejandro Bedoya spent a season at Ibrox under Ally McCoist before going on to star at the World Cup for the USA

Former Rangers midfielder Alejandro Bedoya has announce dhis retirement from football with an emotional address.

The USA international calls time in a 19-year career after a decade with MLS outfit Philadelphia Union.

Bedoya joined Gers in August 2011 under Ally McCoist, having originally agreed a pre-contract to the switch from Obrebro SK in January 2012, but a deal was thrashed out to take him to Glasgow in August the previous year.

Bedoya made just 13 appearances for the Light Blues, scoring once as Celtic overhauled a 15-point gap to take the title as Rangers imploded off the pitch.

When the Ibrox club entered administration, Bedoya penned returned to Sweden to pen a short-term deal with Helsingborgs before joining Nantes for three years, then his decade long stay with Union.

"The time has come and what a journey it's been," he said. "The time has come to say goodbye to something that's been such a big part of who you are.

"It has been a privilege to dedicate my whole life to the game of soccer. It's given me more than I could ever put into words.

"It's shaped me, challenged me and given me a life I'll always be grateful for.

"The dream started as a little boy who dreamed of playing in full stadiums with passionate fans in attendance, family and friends watching, winning trophies and just living the life of a professional athlete.

"I've been fortunate enough to play this game professionally for 19 years. Sharing the pitch with incredible people, making lifelong frineds, travelling to places I didn't know much about and experiencing things that a young kid kicking a bll around could never have imagined.

"To my parents, Adriano and Julieta and my siblings Santiago and Marcela, thank you for all those road trips and sacrifices during those early years that helped shape my career. I wouldn't be the person I am, nor the player I became, without your unwavering support.

"it's a beautiful story of an immigrant family from Colombia whose son and brother became a captain and represented the USA in a World Cup.

"To my wide Beatrice and my two beautiful kids Santino and Milena, thank you for your unconditional love and endless support throughout my career. Through all the highs and lows, I could always count on you guys to keep me grounded while inspiring me to be better. I hope I;ve made you proud.

"To all my coaches, teammates and staff members, from youth clubs all the way to Orobroske, Glasgow Rangers, Helsingborgs IF, FC Nantes, Phildelphia Union and the US men's national team, it's been an absolute pleasure to share the locker rooms and pitches with you.

"I learned so much at each of those tops and the amazing memories we made representing those badges are endeared in my memory forever. I'm going to miss the locker room banter so much. A big thanks as well to all my friends, the supporters and the fans.

"I leave this game on my own terms knowing every time I stepped on the pitch, I gave it my all. I hope you guys felt the pride I felt walking out between those white lines and competing everyday to represent you. You will always be the bedrock of the clubs and teams we play for and I have appreciated your support, both locally and from afar.

"To the city of Philadelphia, thank you for ten wonderful years. You've welcomed our family with open arms and we leave the city cherishing all the friendships and relationships we have made.

"It's now time for a new chapter and I'm looking forward to approaching it in the same way I approached soccer. I'm leaving the game with no regrets, knowing I gave it everything and I'm excited for what's to come."