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Giggs confirms Wales exit

30 May 2007 - 14:53:39

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Wales wing wizard Ryan Giggs has confirmed he will retire from international football after Saturday's Euro 2008 qualifier against the Czech Republic at the Millennium Stadium.

The 33-year-old Manchester United great has won 63 caps to date and will call time after Saturday's clash in Cardiff.

Giggs told reporters: "I feel it's a good time to retire and it's been a difficult decision. I've loved playing for my country and captaining my country.

"I just felt it was the right time for both me and the team. My motivation hasn't dropped, I've enjoyed training and enjoyed playing, even if we've not been as successful as we'd hoped.

"I don't feel I've been performing as well as I could have. I've had a successful time at club level and I always wanted to play in the best tournaments, but many players haven't done so."

Boss John Toshack added: "I had an idea what was coming and from my point of view it's been a privilege, he's set a great example to the younger players in the squad.

"I would like to wish Ryan all the best and say how much I've appreciated all his work."

Giggs' Wales career started way back in October 1991 against Germany, when he became his country's youngest-ever international at the time.