Swiss trio say goodbye

Fabio Celestini has become the latest player to announce his international retirement after Switzerland's disappointing UEFA EURO 2004™ campaign came to an end with a 3-1 defeat against France last night.

Trio quitting
Before the tournament, goalkeeper Jörg Stiel and veteran forward Stéphane Chapuisat both revealed that they would quit international football after the finals in Portugal. And today, Celestini followed their lead by confirming he had played his last game for Switzerland after 31 appearances and two goals.

Dublin goal
The 28-year-old Olympique de Marseille midfield player made one start at EURO 2004™, when he replaced the suspended Johann Vogel against England. Although he coveted the role of anchorman in the Swiss midfield, coach Köbi Kuhn favoured Vogel.

No responsibilities
"I need to be a leader and to have responsibilities," Celestini said at a press conference today. "I don't see myself having the chance in this team and prefer to leave with the nice memories I have, although Kuhn can call me if he is in urgent need of help."

Farewell
The retirements of Stiel and Chapuisat will have a major impact on the Swiss team. Stiel played a leading role on and off the pitch as the team captain, while Chapuisat is arguably his country's best-ever player. He won 103 caps and scored 21 goals after making his debut against Brazil in 1989.