Steve Heighway has announced his retirement from his coaching role with the Liverpool FC Academy at the age of 75.

The Reds legend, who made 475 appearances, scored 76 goals and won a host of major honours – including multiple league titles and European Cups – during his playing career at Anfield, returned to the Kirkby youth base at the beginning of 2015.

Having initially taken up a part-time position at the request of Academy manager Alex Inglethorpe, later that year Heighway was appointed as a full-time consultant.

Heighway had previously served as LFC’s head of youth development for a remarkable 18 years, guiding the likes of Jamie Carragher, Robbie Fowler, Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen into the first team, before initially retiring in 2007.

“Steve has decided it is the right time to retire from his coaching role at the club,” Inglethorpe told Liverpoolfc.com.

“Steve has not only enjoyed a successful playing career at the club, but also an incredible coaching career lasting over 40 years, in which he has overseen the development of some of the most iconic players to have played for Liverpool Football Club.

“Whilst Steve may no longer be putting on his boots to work on the grass, he will still be at the Academy to watch games and share his expertise and wisdom for those fortunate to be in his company.

“I would like to lead the thanks to Steve for the time and guidance that he has given to not only myself but to all of us at the Academy over the last seven years.”