Sunderland's Swedish midfielder Stefan Schwarz announced his international retirement today. The 32-year-old made the decision after talks with Sunderland manager Peter Reid and Sweden national coach Tommy Soderberg. "It's all over for me as far as playing for the national team is concerned," the former Arsenal and Valencia midfielder told Sunderland's official website.
"I've picked up many injuries playing for Sweden and it doesn't feel right. I want to put all my efforts into my career at Sunderland. I had a chat with Tommy Soderberg and Peter Reid and I feel I've made the right decision."
Schwarz's international career spanned 12 years and 69 caps but he was sidelined for eight months last season after picking up an Achilles injury while playing for Sweden in a friendly against Austria. He was again injured in June when he damaged his knee during a training session with the national squad in Stockholm.
Reid added on the website: "Stefan is a top drawer international player and there's been no pressure from me. It's a decision I respect. He has had a great international career and Sweden have lost a very good footballer."
Filed by Neill Reilly
