Luis Amado bows out from futsal

Spain and Inter FS goalkeeper Luis Amado has called time on his glittering futsal career at the age of 40.

The veteran hangs up his gloves having amassed a long list of winners' medals on both the club and international stage, and he is now considering a new role in the game.

"I've been preparing mentally for this," he said, during a ceremony on Wednesday to mark his retirement. "It's a hard decision because I've been playing since the age of 19. It has been, is and will be my life. The club wants me to stay, I want to stay and we'll see.

"I hope to continue contributing. Futsal has given me a lot, so I don't want to retire without giving all I can offer. I think 21 years of playing experience gives me a background for whoever uses it. I'm here to help."

Beginning his career with Club Atlético de Madrid Leganés, Amado won a league title and three Spanish Cups with Caja Segovia before switching to Inter in 2001. In 15 seasons with the Madrid side, Amado helped them win seven league titles, six Spanish Cups, the Copa del Rey and a record three UEFA Futsal Cups.

Capped 179 times by Spain, Amado was also part of squads that won five UEFA Futsal EURO titles and two FIFA Futsal World Cups. He retired from international futsal after 14 years in 2012.