Former Australia bowler Glenn McGrath has backed Michael Clarke's decision to retire from international cricket at the end of The Ashes series.

Clarke confirmed that he would be stepping away from the international stage after England wrapped up the win at Trent Bridge by an innings and 78 runs victory to secure a series triumph with a game to spare.

After struggling for form with the bat throughout the summer, McGrath believes that his former teammate deserves credit for a glittering career ahead of his final appearance at The Oval.

"I was there when Michael Clarke made his debut in Bangalore. He has been a big player for a long, long time and his average of about 50 is exceptional at Test level," he told BBC Sport.

"I think he's made the right decision - he's going out on his own terms. He's a very strong character and I think he'll get plenty of support at The Oval."

The fifth Test will mark Clarke's 115th appearance in the longest format.