Ljungberg announces retirement

Sweden captain hangs up international boots

Last updated: 27th June 2008

Fredrik Ljungberg Sweden

Ljungberg: Quitting international football

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Sweden captain Fredrik Ljungberg has announced his retirement from international football.

Ljungberg has opted to hang up his boots for Sweden, but will continue to play at club level with West Ham.

Sweden failed to progress beyond the group stages at Euro 2008 and the 31-year-old midfielder has now decided the time is right to bring to an end almost 11 years at international level.

"The simple fact is that the physical strain of doubling on the national team and in club football for such a long time has finally taken its toll," Ljungberg said in a letter on the web site of Swedish paper Helsingborg Dagbladet.

Focus

"And that is why I have decided to concentrate on playing for West Ham United and that is where my focus will be.

"I can honestly say that I have loved every match, especially the undying support that you the fans have always given us players.

"I will carry on playing soccer at the highest level in the Premier League for several more years and I love this sport more than anything."

Ljungberg made his debut for Sweden against USA in January 1998 and went on to make 71 appearances and scored 14 goals.