FORMER Colchester United striker Marvin Sordell has described football as "a beautiful game with an ugly persona" after citing his mental wellbeing as a big factor behind his decision to retire aged just 28.

Sordell has announced his retirement after terminating his contract with Sky Bet League One side Burton Albion and is keen to help others who may be struggling with mental health problems.

The 28-year-old former England Under-21 striker, who joined Bolton for a fee in the region of £3 million in 2012 and later that summer represented Team GB at the London Olympics, had been with Burton since January 2017.

While admitting he has lived his dream as a professional footballer, Sordell revealed he has experienced an "ugly side to the game", including racism and bullying.

He wrote in a statement on Twitter: "The six-year-old me would never even have dreamed of what the 28-year-old me has achieved in this game.

"I managed to experience some of the greatest highs on offer - playing for England, for Team GB in the Olympics and in the biggest league in the world, in the form of the Premier League.

"In over 300 matches, for the nine clubs and three national teams I played for, I scored goals that I dreamed about as a young boy in the park.

"I'll be honest, though, the ugly side of the game that many of us are exposed to has had a hugely detrimental effect on my mental health.

"I witnessed and was on the receiving end of racism on several occasions and have seen an incredible amount of bullying, manipulation and verbal abuse to an extent which for many leaves a dirt stain on this industry.

"The combination of these aspects allow me to move on from being a professional football player, knowing that I will be a happier man and also be able to love the game again, in a way that I haven't for many years."

Following his release from Burnley, Sordell signed for Colchester in September 2015.

He signed a one-year contract and made his debut in a 3-3 draw with Chesterfield.

Sordell scored his first goal for the club three days later with the winner in their 3-2 win against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.

After featuring for the U's in their FA Cup defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, Sordell suffered an ankle injury in training that required surgery.

He remained sidelined until the end of the season, meaning his season ended with six goals in 29 appearances.

It was announced at the end of the season that the club would not be offering him a new contract following the expiry of his deal.

Sordell has also had spells at Burnley and Coventry since leaving Bolton and spent the second half of last season on loan at

Northampton.

The striker admits his mental health is something he has struggled with throughout his career and is determined to help others.

"My mental health has been severely impacted throughout my career; therefore I feel it's the right time to move forward in my life," Sordell told the Burton website.

"I have always been eager to help people who have had similar problems in their lives and going forward I'd like to be able to make a difference in football when it comes to mental wellbeing."