Keown could quit international football (Allsport).
KEOWN HINTS AT RETIREMENT
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Veteran defender Martin Keown has all but called time on his England career in
the wake of Friday'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."
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