European: Figo - It's time to retire

Another link to Portugal's 'golden generation' quit the international scene on Wednesday although Luis Figo did concede he may play for his country again should he be needed.

Figo followed Rui Costa in announcing his retirement from the national team after Euro 2004 - a tournament in which Portugal missed the chance to claim glory on home soil when they were beaten by Greece in the final.

Real Madrid star Figo impressed as ever with his workrate but there were the first signs that his influence on the team was starting to wane.

He was substituted in virtually every game by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, including the quarter-final against England when the outcome was very much in the balance.

"There are moments in life when we all have to choose," said Figo in a statement. "After the success of Portugal in the recent Euro 2004 tournament, which filled us all with pride, we saw a new group of footballers arrive who offer continuity for Portugal at a high level."

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Another one of the big stars retiring from the international football. After Zindane doing it i didn't think there would be anymore. Real Madrid could have had an influence in him doing it as they will want to push for trophy's this season.