Veteran Adelaide defender Ben Rutten will hang up his boots at the end of the AFL season.

The 31-year-old confirmed his retirement on Tuesday, having decided several months ago to call time on his storied playing career and pursue a job in coaching.

Rutten has played 225 games for the Crows and will finish as a one-club player.

“I always wanted to finish up while I was still contributing to the team and matching it with the best forwards,” he said in a statement.

“No doubt the time is right, and I leave knowing the club is blessed with a talented and motivated playing group, which is destined for success.”

After being overlooked in two national drafts, Rutten was selected as pick No.40 in the 2002 rookie draft.

He went on to make his debut against Fremantle the following year and in 2005 was named an All-Australian.

Crows coach Brenton Sanderson said Rutten, affectionately know as “Truck”, was a valuable contributor on and off the field.

“Truck has had the better of many of the best forwards over the years,” Sanderson said.

“His ability to adapt and keep up with the changes in the game has been first class.

“In recent times, his mentoring work with our young defenders has been invaluable.

“They will be better players for having worked with Truck.”