Matsumoto Yamaga on Tuesday announced the retirement of striker Yoshiro Abe.

After turning pro in 2003, the 35-year-old played over 300 matches in the top two divisions for FC Tokyo, Oita Trinita, Kashiwa Reysol, Shonan Bellmare, Ventforet Kofu, Jubilo Iwata, and finally, Yamaga.

“I want to thank my mother and father, who supported my career from start to finish, and my family who were always next to me when things were tough,” Abe commented. 

“I also want to thanks the all of the coaches who have instructed me since I was a little boy, the staff at all of the clubs I’ve belonged to, and all of the supporters who have encouraged me even at 35 years old.”

Abe’s five strikes in 24 MEII YASUDA J1 League outings this season were not enough as Yamaga suffered relegated to the second tier at the end.