One of the legends on the international stage is calling it quits as Miroslav Klose has announced his retirement from professional football.

The 38 year old German ends his distinguished career as the all-time leading goal scorer in World Cup history with 16, and will now look to begin a coaching career with his national team to whom he has already given so much.

After a club career consisting of 213 goals in 529 competitive matches, Klose is hanging up his boots. The former Lazio striker made the decision after leaving the Italian side in the summer and was not picked up by another club so far this season.

The Polish born German will begin undergoing an individual training and trainee programme with the aim of starting a coaching career. Klose will be part of Germany's coaching team for their World Cup qualifier in San Marino and a friendly against Italy this month.

Soccer-World Cup winner Klose starts Germany traineeship