Melbourne captain David Neitz has confirmed his retirement from the AFL, effective immediately.

The Demons' games record holder told a media conference he had seen two neurosurgeons, one of whom recommended surgery to repair a ruptured disc while the other advised Neitz to stop playing football.

Neitz, who has not played since he suffered a neck injury in the round-five game against Carlton, said the surgeons' advice had helped him make the decision to retire "quite easily".

"It's been an amazing time, but I am here today to announce my retirement," the 33-year-old said.

Neitz has played more games (306) and kicked more goals (631) than any other Demons player, after he made his debut in 1993.

But the decorated forward has had a frustrating two years because of injury, and was restricted to 15 matches in 2007 because of a nagging knee problem.

Melbourne are last on the ladder, with one win.

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