Manly prop Richie Fa’aoso has retired from rugby league because of a neck injury the Sea Eagles have announced.

The 29-year-old fractured his vertebrae in last year’s semi-final against South Sydney and had hoped to play on but has called time on his 10-year career following medical advice.

“It’s very disappointing and unfortunate, but I feel blessed to have played with the people I have over so many years,” Fa’aoso, 29, said in a statement on Tuesday.

“I’ve had many highs and lows in my career and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunities the game of rugby league has given me.”

Sea Eagles general manager David Perry paid tribute to Fa’aoso.

“It’s an unfortunate situation for Richie and his family,” he said.

“No one wishes for the career of a player to be cut short, but regardless of who you are, a player’s health and wellbeing will always remain the most important factor when a decision such as this is made.”

Fa’aoso played 155 NRL games for six different clubs and was a member of Melbourne’s grand final winning team in 2012.