Leboeuf to retire after World Cup

Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf will retire from international football after the 2002 World Cup finals in Japan and South Korea.

The 33-year-old French international, who moved to Marseille in the summer, has won both the World Cup and European Championship.

‘‘I will definitely stop after the World Cup,’’ Leboeuf said.

‘‘I have experienced fantastic moments. I will still have a year contract with Marseille and it might be possible I will retire from football in two years time.’’

But Leboeuf wants to go out at the top and does not plan to drop down a level to continue his career.

‘‘I will be 34 in January, and it is important to stop when you are still at a high level, I don’t want to hear people saying I have not my place on a pitch any more.

‘‘It was a difficult decision to make but I know it is good for me. I have been a professional footballer for 14 years and with the French team since 1995.’’

And Leboeuf has not ruled out a return to Stamford Bridge as he hopes to take up a backroom role in football when his playing days are over.

‘‘After I definitely retire from football I am sure I will have loads of opportunities. I’d like to be the general manager of a club, or play an important role in Chelsea or Marseille.’’

Leboeuf was named up by national coach Roger Lemerre to take part into France’s controversial friendly with Australia in Melbourne next month.

He said: ‘‘I do not particularly like such a trip in the middle of the week but when I am called I don’t ask myself any questions, I just want to go.

‘‘We are ambassadors, our arrival is expected everywhere and we have to take this responsibility.’’