Hull FC centre Tony Martin, one of Super League’s longest-serving players, has announced his retirement at the age of 33.

The Australian, who played in the first season of Super League as a 17-year-old with London Broncos in 1996, is hanging up his boots after failing to recover from an Achilles injury sustained in the Hull derby in Manchester in May.

Hull was the last stopping-off point for Martin, who played for six clubs in a 17-year career that included spells at Wakefield Trinity Wildcats and Crusaders RL.

He had two stints with the Londoners and played in the NRL for New Zealand Warriors and Melbourne Storm, with whom he won the 1999 Grand Final.

“I was just a kid that grew up in Queensland wanting to be a professional rugby league player,” he told HullFC.TV.

“I’ve been lucky enough to do that for 17 years and I’ve played with some great players past and present. I’ve lived my dream.

“Now it’s time to retire and I’m excited about the prospect of returning to Australia with my wife Mel and son Tana to start the next chapter in my life.”

Hull director of rugby Shaun McRae said: “As a coach you only hope there can be more Tony Martins in your team.

“He is a passionate and knowledgeable guy when it comes to his rugby league, whether he is 17 or 33.

“He has given 110% week in, week out and even during his last few games with us here, and he has gone above and beyond playing with injuries and niggles.”