FORMER Cherries striker Yann Kermorgant has announced his retirement from football, according to reports in France.

The 38-year-old had been playing in the fourth tier of the French league for home-town club Vannes OC before the coronavirus pandemic brought sport to a standstill.

The French Football Federation last week announced the termination of the season, with promotion and relegation decided by points earned per game.

Newspaper Ouest-France on Tuesday reported Kermorgant had taken the decision to hang up his boots after making more than 400 professional appearances.

In an interview with the publication, the former Charlton star said he had planned for the 2019-20 season to be his last for several months although he had not imagined it ending this way.

Kermorgant joined Cherries in January 2014 from the Addicks for £400,000.

He soon established himself as a fans' favourite in Eddie Howe's side, netting a hat-trick in a 5-0 victory against Doncaster in his fifth game for the club.

The Frenchman played a key role in Cherries' memorable 2014-15 campaign, which saw them lift the Championship title at the Valley on the final day of the season.

Kermorgant remained on the south coast for the first half of the club's maiden Premier League season but after making just seven substitute appearances he returned to the Championship in January 2016 with Reading.

He took the decision to head back to France in 2018 after seven years in English football.

During his time at Vitality Stadium he notched 27 goals in just 69 appearances in all competitions.

Vannes OC chairman Maxime Ray saluted Kermorgant for his successful career.

Writing on the club's official Twitter account, Ray said: "I would like to thank, on my own behalf and on behalf of the club, Yann for his contribution to VOC over the last two seasons.

"I wish to emphasise his strong work ethic and professional sportsmanship being a source of inspiration for young players.

"His goals have delighted French fans and fans on the other side of the channel. When conditions permit, the club will organize a gala match to pay homage to the career of this accomplished professional."