Ferreira announces international retirement

(GSM) – Portugal defender Paulo Ferreira has announced his retirement from international football.

The Chelsea player made the decision despite being called into the squad for his country’s opening two Euro 2012 qualifiers.

The 31-year-old, who made 62 appearances for the national side, has informed the Portuguese Football Federation of his decision.

He was a substitute in the final of Euro 2004 in his home country, coming off the bench but unable to prevent Portugal losing to Greece.

Ferreira played at the 2006 World Cup and Euro 2008 but made just one appearance at this summer’s World Cup.