The 35-year-old striker, who featured for Ukraine at Euro 2012, confirmed the news late on Friday night in an official statement on the Bilo-Syni's official website.

"This will probably shock everyone," stated Shevchenko.

"My future will no longer be in football. I will give more information tomorrow (Saturday) but I will be going into politics.

"I hope for your support."

Shevchenko made his name as one of Europe's most prolific strikers with AC Milan.

During his combined time with the Rossoneri, having been there either side of a stint at Chelsea, he scored 175 goals in 322 appearances for the Milan outfit and helped them lift the Champions League in the 2002/03 campaign and the Serie A title the following season.

Shevchenko ends his career as Ukraine's all-time leading goalscorer, scoring 48 times in 111 matches for the national side.