Carles Puyol has insisted that he has never given serious thought to leaving Barcelona but admits that his career could soon be coming to an end.

The Spaniard, who is a product of the club's youth system, has struggled with injuries this season and believes that an equally frustrating year could force him to retire.

Puyol said: "I would like to go to the end of my three-year contract and even extend if possible. I always said I wanted to play until I am 40, but what would please me is to retire from the game at Barcelona.

"I doubt I could stand another season of injuries like the one I have just had.

"If the problems continue next season I will have to quit. These things happen in football."

The 35-year-old has also played 100 times for the Spanish national side.