Barthez to quit in 2006

Fabien Barthez has announced he will hang up his gloves in 2006.

Fabien Barthez has announced he will hang up his gloves at the end of next season.

The France number one is currently with Marseille and courted controversy recently when being accused of spitting at a referee during a friendly in Morocco.

"I love what I am doing and am still motivated by my job," he asserted. "But I am 33 years old.

"There are not many seasons left for me.

"I will call a halt in 2006, from all football."

The former World Cup winner joined l'OM on a permanent basis from Manchester United after a loan spell at Stade Velodrome.

France face Switzerland in their next World Cup qualifier in Paris over the weekend.