Zyryanov retires from Russia duty
Monday, December 17, 2012
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Following a "conversation with head coach Fabio Capello", FC Zenit St Petersburg midfielder Konstantin Zyryanov has retired from international football having amassed 52 caps.
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FC Zenit St Petersburg midfielder Konstantin Zyryanov has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 35.
Zyryanov made his Russia debut on 27 May 2006 and was one of their key performers at UEFA EURO 2008, playing all five matches en route to the semi-final exit at the hands of eventual champions Spain. He amassed 52 caps and scored seven times. His most recent, and final, appearance for his country was in the 1-1 draw against Poland at UEFA EURO 2012.
"We had a conversation with head coach Fabio Capello," said Zyryanov. "It will stay between us two but I can say the decision has been made that I will not be called up to the national team anymore. I have to say that it was easy for me to work with all the Russia coaches and I am thankful to all of them."
Russia resume their 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in Northern Ireland on 23 March. They are top of Group F having won all four of their opening fixtures.
