JULIO ARCA has announced his retirement from football, a couple of weeks after helping South Shields claim the Evo-Stick Northern Premier League First Division title.

The 37-year-old has spent three successful seasons with South Shields, playing a prominent role in the non-league club’s rise from the Northern League to within two divisions of the Conference and celebrating an FA Vase success at Wembley last May.

Prior to signing for Shields, the Argentinian enjoyed a hugely successful Premier League career with both Sunderland and Middlesbrough.

Having been part of an Argentinian youth team that featured Javier Saviola and Maxi Rodriguez, Arca joined Sunderland in a £3.5m move from Argentinos Juniors in 2000.

He made 177 appearances for the Black Cats, mainly on the left of midfield, and helped the club make an instant return to the Premier League after suffering relegation under Mick McCarthy.

He left Sunderland after they were relegated again in 2006, making the short trip down the A19 to Middlesbrough in a £1.75m transfer.

He proved every bit as popular as a Boro player, making 185 appearances for the Teessiders in a seven-year spell between 2006 and 2013.

He was named club captain halfway through his Boro career, but suffered a series of injuries that resulted in him announcing his retirement from professional football in 2013.

After a couple of years away from the game, he began playing again with Sunderland pub side Willow Pond, and was persuaded to sign for South Shields in September 2015.

He has been part of a remarkable success story at Mariners Park, with his contributions from central midfield helping Shields win three successive titles.

“Julio has been an inspirational figure since joining the club almost three years ago,” said South Shields chairman Geoff Thompson. “He has played a key role in transforming the club’s fortunes and provided some unforgettable moments, and we cannot thank him enough for his incredible efforts.

“Everyone at the club hoped he would be able to continue his playing career for one more year, but we are fully respectful of his decision, which has been made for family reasons.

“He ends his playing days having won a league title in each of his three seasons here, and departs with his powers undimmed.”

Arca has retired to spend more time with his young family, with Shields’ latest promotion meaning they will face some much longer away trips next season.

He will be offered an off-field role with Shields, with the club keen to make the most of his extensive experience.

“We are in discussions with Julio as to a future role, and very much hope we can find a resolution so that he can continue to benefit the club with his expertise in an off-field capacity,” added Thompson. “It goes without saying that he and his family will always be welcome at Mariners Park.”