Monday, August 11, 2014

Klose retires from international duty

Klose retires from international duty
Miroslav Klose has retired from international duty after helping guide his nation to the 2014 World Cup

During the competition, Klose became the all leading goalscorer in World Cup history, with the second goal in Germany’s 7-1 win over Brazil in the semi-final.

Klose finished with a total of 76 goals for Germany, making him the highest goalscorer for the nation.

Klose, who was born in Poland, told the German national team’s website: “With the win in Brazil, a childhood dream came true, I am proud and happy that I was able to help this great success.

“I had a unique and wonderful time and many memorable moments with the national team.”

Klose made his debut for the German national team in 2001 and featured at an incredible four World Cups.

“The team’s success was and is always the top priority for me,” he added.

“I’ve achieved our goal with the national team but I have achieved goals I set personally too. Anyone who knows me knows I am very ambitious.

“The job of a striker is to score goals and it never occurred to me about records. As a striker I am always dependent on my team-mates and I give them a big thank you.”

Klose bows out of the international arena with Germany having never lost whenever he has scored and only Lothar Matthaus featured more for the nation.

Germany head coach Joachim Low paid tribute to the striker, claiming he is one of the best that has ever been.

“Miro Klose is an international star. He is one of the greatest strikers there have been,” he said.

“His footballing qualities; his aerial ability, his goal threat, his understanding and his tireless commitment are second to none, and yet I have barely seen a player who is so much about modesty and team spirit.

“For Miro it was always an honour to play for the national team and he has given everything to Germany. He will be missed as a footballer and a person and I am happy and grateful I was able to work with him.”

Klose’s retirement follows that off the German captain Philipp Lahm.

No comments: