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Swedish midfielder Ljungberg ends international career

28/06/2008

Swedish midfielder Freddie Ljungberg has retired from international football to concentrate on playing for West Ham United.

Ljungberg said his body could no longer take the physical strain of playing in the Premier League and on the international stage.

Therefore, to prolong his domestic career the midfielder has chosen to end his international career.

Ljungberg made his international debut in 1998 and went on to earn 75 caps, scoring 14 goals during that time.

The 31-year-old has played in five major tournaments for Sweden, helping them reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2004.

Ljungberg was appointed captain of the side before the Euro 2008 tournament but Sweden were knocked out at the group stage after defeats to Spain and Russia.

The Hammers player made his announcement in an open letter in Swedish newspaper Helsingborg Dagbladet.

He said: "The simple fact is the physical strain of playing on the national team and in club football for such a long time has finally taken its toll."

"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 was beset with injuries last season and the midfielder hopes his international retirement will allow him to play more for the Hammers.

He said: "I have come to the decision to concentrate on playing for my club West Ham United, and that is where my focus will be in the future."

Ljungberg moved to Upton Park last season following nine years at Arsenal.