Gone are the days when footballers would retire at the age of 30.

Improvements in diet, conditioning and treatment have helped players extend their careers. Better pitches and equipment has also reduced the physical toll on footballers and these days, it is not so unusual for players to still be active in their late 30s.

And over the years, a small percentage have even continued playing at a high level into their 40s.

Here, a look at some of the most famous footballers who were still active and competitive in their fifth decade...