Ljungberg to quit internationals

Sweden captain Freddie Ljungberg has quit international football to focus on playing for his club side West Ham.

"The physical strain of playing for the national team and in club football for such a long time has finally taken its toll," said the midfielder.

"I have loved every match, especially the outstanding support that you the fans have always given us players."

Ljungberg, 31, was handed the captain's armband for Euro 2008 but an ageing Sweden went out at the group stage.

After recording only one win in Group D - over 2004 champions Greece - it was predicted that a number of Sweden's older players would call time on their international career and Ljungberg is the first to make that move official.

606: DEBATE
Who can step into Ljungberg's shoes as Sweden captain?

"I will carry on playing football at the highest level in the Premier League for several more years and I love this sport more than anything," added Ljungberg, who made his announcement in a letter released via the website of Swedish newspaper Helsingborg Dagbladet.

Vittsjo-born Ljungberg earned 75 caps and scored 14 goals for his country.

He joined West Ham prior to the start of last season after spending nine trophy-laden years at London rivals Arsenal but has suffered a number of injuries recently, including a cracked rib in April.

He has three years left on his contract with West Ham.

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