North Queensland Cowboys star Michael Morgan has announced his immediate retirement from the game after succumbing to a shoulder injury he suffered in round two against St George Illawarra.

The utility represented Australia (12 caps) and Queensland (12 caps) and famously through the final ball to Kyle Feldt to send the 2015 grand final into extra-time.

“This is not the way I envisioned my career finishing, but I’m retiring knowing I gave myself every opportunity over the last 12 months for my shoulder to be strong enough to continue playing. Unfortunately, the end result was out of my control,” Morgan said.

“Even though I’m hanging up the boots at 29, I’m extremely proud of everything I achieved over the course of 12 seasons as an NRL player.

“As someone who was born and raised in Townsville, the opportunity to join the Cowboys as a 16-year-old was fulfilling a life-long dream and I’m grateful for every moment at this great club.

“Listing every person who contributed to my career would be impossible, but to all my teammates, coaches, everyone who supported me throughout my career, including Cowboys members and fans and most importantly my family – thank you.”