Ex-Liverpool striker Milan Baros retires from international football

Former Liverpool striker Milan Baros has retired from international football after the Czech Republic were eliminated from Euro 2012.

Real Madrid striker Cristiano Ronaldo netted a 79th-minute winner to book Portugal’s place in the semi-finals, where Paulo Bento’s men will face either France or Spain.

It resulted in the Czech Republic’s exit from the European championship as they failed to emulate the exploits of their fellow countrymen at Euro 1996, when they were beaten by Germany in the final.

The 30-year-old scored 27 goals in 107 appearances for Liverpool before moving to Aston Villa for two seasons in 2005, later quitting to join his former Reds manager Gérard Houllier at Lyon.

An statement on the Czech football federation’s website read: “Baros’ retirement had been speculated about for some time. The 30-year-old has been the subject of sharp criticism, culminating in the first Euro 2012 match against Russia. When Baros was substituted, some fans booed him.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky has yet to make a decision on his international future, with the 31-year-old Czech midfielder hinting it may be time focus on his club career.

“I would love to continue, but on the other hand I’m not the youngest anymore and have had problems with my fitness,” Rosicky told Arsenal’s website.

“I will take time to think about it. As I say, I would love to continue but I’m not stupid – I know I’m getting older and have to think about what is good for me.”

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