I need pills and Injection to play — Luis Suarez reveals how he braves his last days as a footballer

Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez has revealed the pain and effort it takes him to continue to turn up in boots and shin guards as a professional footballer.

The 36-year-old recently called his time on his career with Brazilian side Gremio when he penned an emotional message on social media to bid farewell to the supporters of the club.

However, despite being 36, his departure from Gremio does not coincide with retirement from the beautiful game, as he is reportedly expected to reunite with best mate Lionel Messi at Inter Miami in the MLS.

The Uruguayan has had a storied career across six clubs and is generally regarded by many as one of the best strikers of his generation. 

However, behind this beautiful story of the sun setting on an incredible career is one of pain, as Suarez reveals the sacrifices in the form of physical toll on his body he has had to endure to continue to play professionally.

"Days before each game I take three pills, and hours before playing I get an injection. If not, I can't play. Hence the limp,” he told Radio 890 Sport, per the Euro Football.

"I have to think that in maybe five years I won't be able to play 5-a-side football with my friends.

"The truth is that the first steps in the morning are very painful. Anyone who sees me thinks that it is impossible for me to play a game. My son asks me to play with him and I simply cannot."

Meanwhile, we review five Lionel Messi records Cristiano Ronaldo may never break.