Spain defender Carlos Puyol has confirmed he will be playing international football for another two years.
Reports had suggested the 32-year-old centre-half was considering retirement following Spain's World Cup success in South Africa this summer.
La Roja won a first world title in their history despite losing their opening game of the tournament, and Puyol headed in a crucial winner against Germany in the semi-finals.
He will now try and help Spain defend their European title in Poland and Ukraine in 2012, following discussions with coach Vicente del Bosque and sporting director Fernando Hierro.
He said: "After turning the matter over in my mind a lot, I have decided to continue for two more years with the national team, after talking to my team-mates, the coach, Fernando Hierro and friends I opted to take this decision."
Puyol, who was named in the team of the World Cup, has been a mainstay in
Spain's back four since making his debut back in November 2000.
The Barcelona stalwart currently has 90 caps for Spain and is now likely to complete a century of appearances for his country.
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