After recently hinting he could stick around for another year, original MLS'er Chris Armas officially announced his retirement from the Chicago Fire on Tuesday.

The 35-year old defensive midfielder was a key member of the Fire's 1998 MLS Cup champions and also won four US open Cup titles during his career, which started with the Los Angeles Galaxy.

"I have a lot of people to thank, especially the Fire, for believing in me, sticking with me, and for having that loyalty towards me for all 10 years," Armas said.

"I feel very proud to be there from the beginning of MLS. I have been fortunate to watch this league grow and thrive and feel very proud to be part of this journey."

Armas, a five-time MLS Best XI choice and veteran of 66 US National Team caps, leaves the league with 12 goals and 48 assists in 264 games.

The New York native worked his final game in last weekend's Eastern Conference final, which the Fire lost 1-0 at New England.