FORMER Saints defender Dean Richards has been forced to retire on medical grounds after suffering with a long-term ear infection and dizzy spells for most of the season.

The 30-year-old Spurs centre half, who underwent tests for a suspected brain tumour last year, has quit after medical advice suggested it would be harmful to his long-term health if he opted to carry on playing.

Richards was signed by Dave Jones for Saints in the summer of 1999 on a Bosman free from Wolves and controversially sold to Glenn Hoddle's Spurs for £8.1m in September 2001.

He made 67 Premiership starts for Saints and 73 for Spurs - the last of which was against Aston Villa last May.

Richards said: "Football has been a huge part of my life and it has been a miserable time for me sitting out this season and awaiting test results.

"I am obviously deeply disappointed to be giving up the sport I love, but it is the only choice.

"I should like to thank the club, the medical team and my team-mates for all the support they have given me through this. I should also like to thank and acknowledge the other clubs I have been associated with throughout my career for their continuous support."

Tottenham sporting director Frank Arnesen said: "It is always a sad day when you lose a good player from the game.

"Dean has shown great character through a trying time.

"He had some fine moments for Spurs and we all wish him well."

During his career, Richards battled back from a serious car crash to produce the find of form which once had him earmarked as a potential England centre-back.

The Bradford-born player began his career with his hometown club before joining Wolves.