Borowski hangs up boots

Werder Bremen midfielder Tim Borowski has announced his retirement after a long battle with an ankle injury. The 32-year-old made 236 Bundesliga appearances in a career spent almost entirely with Werder Bremen, save for one season at Bayern Munich in 2008/09. He also earned 33 Germany caps, but has been plagued by ankle problems since an injury and subsequent operation in October 2010. "I had a wonderful time as a football player, during which time I experienced a whole lot of beautiful, emotional moments," Borowski said on Bremen's website. He is now expected to remain with Werder in a new role, and added: "Werder is my club. "I am currently in a conversation with the leaders. I think in a month or so we will be able to say more. But I also want to take a break and spend some time with my family." Borowski joined Werder's youth team as a 16-year-old. FIFA