Eliminated captains call it quits
Thursday, October 13, 2005
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Bosnia-Herzegovina forward Sergej Barbarez and Republic of Ireland defender Kenny Cunningham have retired from international football.
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Out of contention
The 34-year-old Barbarez's team lost 1-0 to Serbia and Montenegro in Belgrade last night, leaving them third in qualifying Group 7 and out of the running. The Hamburger SV player spent seven years in the national squad, scoring 14 goals in 43 appearances, following his debut in a May 1998 friendly against Argentina.
'Full responsibility'
He said: "I am sorry we failed to qualify for Germany. The new two-year cycle for EURO 2008 is a long period, given my age. We did not fulfil our objectives and I am taking full responsibility. It is time for younger players to take my place."
Draw not enough
Cunningham, also 34, was a sad man after his side drew 0-0 against Switzerland in Dublin yesterday, meaning they had to settle for fourth place in Group 4 rather than a hoped-for play-off spot.
'Future is bright'
The Birmingham City FC centre-back won 72 caps after his debut in 1996. "That's it for me, as far as international football is concerned," said Cunningham. "But I feel Ireland have a very good squad of young players and the future is bright."