Wed Jun 18 14:29:47 2008

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French veterans Thuram, Makelele announce retirement

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Zurich, Switzerland (Sports Network) - Veteran duo Claude Makelele and Lilian Thuram have confirmed their international retirements following France's exit from Euro 2008.

Chelsea midfielder Makelele, 35, and 36-year-old Barcelona defender Thuram made their announcements following the 2-0 defeat to Italy in Zurich.

Thuram is France's all-time record cap holder after making 142 international appearances.

Makelele won 71 caps for Les Bleus but was not a part of their 1998 World Cup winning side or the team that won the European championship two years later.

"This tournament was my last," confirmed Makelele after the final Group C game.

"To have been allowed to wear France's colors, that's my trophy."

Thuram, who did not feature against Italy, added: "That's the end of my career for France and of a very important part of my life.

"There's a lot of sadness."

(Courtesy of sportbox.tv)