Spain captain Fernando Hierro (picture) will bring a 13-year international career to an end when his team complete their World Cup campaign.

The 34-year-old announced his decision at an emotional news conference at the squad's training camp yesterday, four days before Spain play their quarter-final.

"It's a very difficult moment for me," said Hierro, his voice breaking up with emotion as he fought back tears.

"It's a painful decision but I've come to the conclusion that the World Cup is the ideal moment to bring an end to my international career.

"I took the decision back in December last year and announced it to the football federation and the coach. It's time for me to dedicate myself to my club, Real Madrid."

Remarkably for a defender, Hierro is Spain's leading international goalscorer as well as being the country's most capped outfield player.

He made his debut in September 1989 in a 1-0 win over Poland and has played 88 games for the full international side, scoring 29 goals.

Hierro has now appeared at four World Cups, dating back to 1990 when he was a non-playing member of Spain's squad in Italy.