Hull City midfielder Ryan Mason has been unfortunately been forced to retire at the age of 26 as a result of the head injury he suffered against Chelsea in 2017.

His decision to retire follows "the guidance of numerous world-renowned neurologists and neuro surgeons" who have worked with Mason closely after he fractured his skull.

Despite having "worked tirelessly" to play again, Mason said, "the risks involved had given him no option but to retire".

A post shared by Ryan Mason (@ryan8mason) on Feb 13, 2018 at 2:48am PST

Tigers boss Leonid Slutsky said in August that "the question is not just about football but about his life" after Mason went to see a third specialist.

The Championship club said in a statement: "Ryan has sought the guidance of numerous world-renowned neurologists and neuro surgeons, who have all advised that a return to competitive football is not advised.

Plenty of other clubs, pros, and pundits from the world of football also wished Mason the best after his decision.

Our thoughts are with @RyanMason who has made a difficult decision in announcing his retirement following a head injury in January 2017.

We wish Ryan and his family every success for the future. We are here to offer our full support, advice and guidance moving forward. pic.twitter.com/3qke2kMteK

— PFA (@PFA) February 13, 2018

A real shame for an extremely talented footballer. Wish @RyanMason all the very best. https://t.co/zFu8LrjCrC

— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) February 13, 2018

My heart goes out to Ryan Mason, @HullCity player who's now been forced to retire from playing due to the head injury he suffered in January, 2017.

— Jim White (@JimWhite) February 13, 2018

Not often we look back at goals conceded, but this was some hit!

Wishing you all the best for the future, @RyanMason.#SCFC ?⚪️ pic.twitter.com/D3JLWhWZb2

— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) February 13, 2018

Everybody at Chelsea Football Club sends our best wishes to Ryan Mason following his retirement. Good luck in whatever you choose to do next, Ryan.

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 13, 2018