Barcelona defender Carlos Puyol has denied suggestions that he could quit international football after being ruled out of the Spain squad for Euro 2012.
It was confirmed on Tuesday that the 34-year-old will miss the next six weeks due to a knee operation, effectively ruling him out of the tournament.
However, the veteran has insisted that he is not yet ready to hang up his international boots.
"The rumours that I will retire from the national team? I want to retire on the pitch, not in the operating room. I was looking forward to playing my 100th game for Spain and to be at Euro 2012. I think it will very difficult to make the tournament, though," Puyol told reporters.
"Looking at the recovery time needed, it's impossible. However, I'm in good spirits. These things happen, although it's at a bad moment. I'm looking forward to starting the recovery process after the surgery.
"I want to go on for many more years. I always say five or six. I will take care of myself. If I can make my 100th appearance for Spain later on, that's fine too."
Puyol has made 99 appearances for Spain.
Matt Law
