Former Scotland midfielder James Morrison has announced his retirement and is ready to embark on a new journey.

The 33-year-old, who scored three international goals with Scotland, has decided to start his new career in coaching with Albion's Academy.

He has been without a club since he left West Brom in the summer after scoring 39 goals in 341 appearances for them.

He announced his retirement on West Brom’s official website, saying: "Football has been my life for so long. It's difficult to say goodbye to that.

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"Having said that, being offered the opportunity to return to this club to begin some coaching has helped me come to terms with my playing days coming to an end.

“I loved playing here. It’s easy to take it all for granted, but I really have loved my time here, so to be able to extend that in a non-playing capacity is great.

“Coaching is obviously new to me and I’m thankful the club are giving me this opportunity, because it’s not a given that a club will just throw their doors open to you, especially not so quickly after you decide to retire.

“I’m looking forward to it. I have a lot to learn but I’m up for that challenge.

"I guess to begin with my experience as a professional is what I can try to pass on to the lads, but I’m hopeful that will soon come with high-quality coaching.”