News Feature

Soccer hero Kovac hangs up boots

08 January 2009

Legendary Croatian soccer captain Niko Kovac has announced his decision to retire from the international game, Reuters has reported.

The tough-tackling midfielder stated that the reason behind his decision was to give up-and-coming Croatian players a chance with the Fiery Ones.

Currently plying his trade in Austria with FC Red Bull Salzburg, Kovac made 83 appearances and scored 15 goals during his tenure with the national side.

According to Reuters, 37-year-old Kovac told the Croatian daily newspaper Vecernje Novosti: "It was a tough decision because playing for my country was everything to me."

Before he hung up his boots for good, Kovac had time to wish his international teammates the best of luck for their current qualifying campaign.

He added: "Croatia face a tight battle to qualify for 2010 World Cup finals and the team needs younger players performing every week for their clubs."

Kovac's announcement follows that of coach Slaven Bilic earlier this week, who revealed that he would be leaving his post next year.

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