German Legend, Miroslav Klose Announces Retirement

German legend, Miroslav Klose has retired from international football. The record goal scorer in the history of the World Cup with 16 goals in total is hanging his boots after 71 goals for the German machines in 137 appearances for the German national team.

He spoke to the German FA website after announcing his retirement:

“With the win in Brazil, a childhood dream came true, I am proud and happy that I was able to help this great success,” Klose told the German Football Association’s official website. “I had a unique and wonderful time and many memorable moments with the national team.”

“The team’s success was and is always the top priority for me,” said the Lazio player. “I’ve achieved our goal with the national team but I have achieved goals I set personally too. Anyone who knows me knows I am very ambitious.

“The job of a striker is to score goals and it never occurred to me about records. As a striker I am always dependent on my team-mates and I give them a big thank you.”

“Miro Klose is an international star. He is one of the greatest strikers there have been,” said Joachim Löw, the Germany manager. “His footballing qualities; his aerial ability, his goal threat, his understanding and his tireless commitment are second to none, and yet I have barely seen a player who is so much about modesty and team spirit.

“For Miro it was always an honour to play for the national team and he has given everything to Germany. He will be missed as a footballer and a person and I am happy and grateful I was able to work with him.”

The very humble 36-year-old goal scoring machine will be dearly missed by the German national team.