Keown hints at international retirement

Veteran defender Martin Keown has all but called time on his England career in the wake of yesterday’s 2-1 loss to Brazil.

The quarter-final exit of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s side means that Keown has now been to two World Cup Finals and not kicked a ball.

The chances are that it is the last we will see of him, a player who will be 36 next month, in an England shirt.

He told The Daily Telegraph: ‘‘I have now joined the illustrious group of players who have been to two World Cups and not played - in fact, I think Viv Anderson was the only other one!

‘‘Though I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at international level, it is unlikely I will be involved with England in the future. It is time I let someone else have a go.

‘‘When I climb on board the plane home today and settle back in my seat I will reflect on the tournament and my disappointment at not coming off the bench.

‘‘But I can not complain. I have two medals in my top pocket from a successful season with Arsenal."

Whether or not he adds to his medal-haul with the Gunners is also open to debate, however.

‘‘I also have to make a decision about my Arsenal future,’’ added Keown. ‘‘Other clubs are interested in me and I do not know whether I will be at Highbury next season.

‘‘The club’s offer has to be right. I am fit, I feel I am playing well. I was good enough to be picked for England’s World Cup squad. At the moment, my decision could go either way.’’