Shevchenko to retire after Euro 2012

Andriy Shevchenko, who played for Milan and Chelsea in a glittering career, said he will retire after the European Championships next year in his home country Ukraine.

“I have decided to retire right after Euro 2012,” the 34-year-old Shevchenko said.

“This is my final decision. We are all set to perform at our best at our home European championships. And I believe we can challenge the clear favourites in the battle for the title if luck is on our side.”

Shevchenko also said that he believed that Ukraine’s national side would have enough reasons for a successful display at their home turf next year.

“There’s plenty of football-crazy fans at Ukraine and their support is truly priceless for us as it drives us on,” he said.

“Besides, the country’s top clubs, Shakhtar and Dynamo, have been performing solidly in European cup competition in recent years.

“There’s plenty of young talent in Ukraine’s football and the national squad in particular,” Shevchenko said.

“That’s why I have no doubts that this team will be able to achieve serious international success in the very near future.”