Hull City's Ryan Mason, 26, retires after heeding specialist medical advice over fractured skull

The midfielder fractured his skull against Chelsea in January 2017 and hasn't played since

Mason has announced his retirement at the age of 26 (Getty)

Former Hull City, Tottenham and England midfielder Ryan Mason has announced his retirement from football due to a medical issue.

The 26 year-old fractured his skull in January 2017 after a clash of heads with Chelsea defender Gary Cahill.

Mason underwent surgery in the immediate aftermath of the game and doctors stabilised his condition, with both clubs praised for their swift actions in helping the stricken star, but following advice from specialists he has deemed it unsafe to continue his career.

"I have worked tirelessly in order to be able to return to the pitch," he said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, having taken expert medical advice I now have no option but to retire due to the risks involved given the nature of my injury."

Mason is understood to have seen three different specialists, but all of them warned of the risks of continuing with his football career.

A statement from Hull City read:

"It is with deep regret that the Club has to announce that, following the head injury suffered on 22nd January 2017, Ryan Mason is to retire from football with immediate effect.

"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.

"Ryan would like to put on record his thanks to all at the Club who have aided his recovery to this point and he his is indebted to them for their support and compassion over the past 12 months."