BRADFORD Bulls have announced that captain Leon Pryce has retired from rugby league with immediate effect.

The 35-year-old, who was the first player to sign for the new club after liquidation in January, has been struggling with a knee injury for much of the campaign and withdrew from Bulls' most recent defeat to London before half-time.

Pryce said: β€œAfter playing rugby since a young boy I am finally done. I wished to have one more year at Bradford but I just couldn't do it.”

Pryce bows out with one of the most successful careers in rugby league, winning 12 major titles including four Super League titles, five Challenge Cups and three World Club Challenge victories.

The half-back is one of only three players in recent rugby league history to win both the Harry Sunderland and Lance Todd Trophy, joining the short list of legends to do this alongside Paul Wellens and Kevin Sinfield.

Pryce has represented both England and Great Britain on the international stage, as well being a valued member of the final Lions defeat in Australia in 2006.

The veteran half-back spoke out in an interview earlier in the season, saying: β€œIt is tough playing in such a difficult league at my age, you have to be in prime physical condition to be at your best week in, week out.”

He was desperate to sign off his rugby career with home-town club Bulls but was unable to complete the season.

Bulls have vowed to support Pryce in what he chooses to do next.