Puyol dispels retirement talk

Barcelona defender Carles Puyol says retiring from football is not an option for him and feels he still has nine years left in the game.

The 33-year-old has been plagued by injury problems in 2011, fuelling speculation that he could be nearing the end of his illustrious career.

But Puyol insists that he is in excellent physical condition and wants to keep on playing for many more years.

“I’m feeling perfect physically. After eight months of injury worries, I don’t have any pain now,” Puyol told AS.

“A few days ago, I said that I still have four or five more years left. I can now say that I can go on for nine more years. Retirement is for 65 or 67-year-olds.”

Puyol has made over 500 appearances for Barcelona since making his debut in 1999.

His current contract with the Champions League holders runs until 2013.