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Grant McCann has turned his attentions to coaching at Peterborough United after choosing to hang up his boots as a player.

The 35-year-old was named as Dave Robertson's assistant boss at Posh in May, and has chosen to bring his 18-year playing career to an end after more than 500 first-team appearances.

During that time he played for the likes of West Ham United, Cheltenham Town, Barnsley, Scunthorpe United and Peterborough, as well as representing Northern Ireland at Under-21 and senior level.

All the best to former Iron @grantmccann11, who has announced his retirement from playing today. pic.twitter.com/pp6rhMo3JV

— Scunthorpe United FC (@SUFCOfficial) June 9, 2015

He is a three-time Play-Off promotion winner, with Cheltenham (League 2 – 2005/06), Scunthorpe (League 1 – 2008/09) and Peterborough (League 1 – 2010/11), but is now fully focussed on coaching, and developing the young players at the Posh.

McCann told the club's official website: “I have had so many highs during my playing career and I look back with great pride. I left Northern Ireland at the age of 16 to fulfil my dream of making it as a professional footballer, and to play in the Premier League and every professional league in England has been something that I have really enjoyed.

Massive thanks to all my old clubs for having me, biggest thanks to Harry Redknapp for giving me the chance all those years ago.

— Grant McCann (@grantmccann11) June 9, 2015

“I have been promoted three times and each time has been an unbelievable feeling. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those clubs that I have represented and the fans for the support that I have received during my career.

“I have been fortunate to represent my country, Northern Ireland, 39 times and have played against some of the best players in the world.

“Now I want to concentrate on helping the young lads at Peterborough flourish and pass on my knowledge to them. I can concentrate on being the best coach I can possibly be for the football club that I love.”

All the best to @grantmccann11 who has retired from playing today. Thanks for the memories, Grant! https://t.co/ftQYUe5lX1

— Barnsley FC (@bfc_official) June 9, 2015

Peterborough chairman and owner Darragh MacAnthony reserved praise for McCann, and hailed the significant impact he has had at the club since his arrival in 2010.

“Grant has been one of the best signings made in the nine years I’ve had the football club.

“Since day one he has been a model pro on and off the pitch and you couldn’t put a price on the experience he has brought to our dressing room, not to mention his contribution to some of our best moments promotion-wise, Wembley-cup win wise or playing in the Championship against all odds.

“I look forward to helping him grow his coaching career which will only emulate if not surpass his playing career.” .@grantmccann11 has announced his retirement from playing – is he Cheltenham Town's best ever midfielder? #ctfcpic.twitter.com/6RwJAmI2T9

— Cheltenham Town FC (@CTFCofficial) June 9, 2015