© EuroFootball.com
After just a few hours following Wales national team's defeat to Poland 2-3, striker Gareth Speed announced that he is ending his career on the international stage. Captain of the national team G. Speed will no longer represent his country in this qualification cycle for the 2006 World Cup.
The 35-year-old player is retiring during a difficult period for the national team, as Wales only managed to gather two points in the four qualification matches, leaving their chances of reaching the World Cup very slim.
"It's all over. I think the time to retire is right. It looks very difficult to qualify for the World Cup, so it would be a mistake to continue my career. Something younger is needed," said G. Speed.
However, G. Speed is not ending his football career altogether. He still has a valid contract for two more years with [club name]. Moreover, he is considered a real contender to become the new Wales national team coach, as Mark Hughes will leave his position.
