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Rugby League

Long quits international rugby

16/04/2007

St Helens and Great Britain stand-off Sean Long has announced his retirement from international rugby league with immediate effect.

The 30-year-old was the subject of much speculation on his future with the national side after he sensationally quit the Lions' 2006 Tri-Nations series against New Zealand and Australia on the eve of the side's final match.

Citing 'personal reasons' for returning home from that tour, Long has now said he no longer wants to be considered for selection for future international fixtures so he can concentrate on extending his shelf-life for his club.

"I've made my mind up and just want to do my best for St Helens now," he told Rugby League World magazine.

"If I can have a couple of full pre-seasons from now on, then I might get another season or two out of myself at the end of my career.

"I've got to listen to my body now and there are too many games in a year for someone to keep playing internationals and expect to be right for the following Super League season."

Long is out of contract at the end of this season but hopes that his renewed commitment to St Helens may earn him another contract to see out his career at Knowsley Road.

He has made over 250 appearances for Saints in a ten-year career with the club. He is also the team's second-highest points-scorer of all time.

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