Bellamy considers retiring at end of season

Last updated : 09 September 2013 By Michael Morris

"I know I said I would not retire from international football, but it's a two-year period to qualify [for Euro 2016] and if I start [the campaign] then step aside, it is robbing someone else of two or four matches, of vital experience," Bellamy told reporters.

"I'm a single parent now and I'm having such a battle to see my kids on a daily basis. It's so hard. Then, being away for 10 days, I'm not the only dad who has to go through it, but if you have experienced it, then you would understand."

He added: "I know I could change what I'm thinking, but the way I'm feeling now, it could be my last season in football. I have so much to look forward to after football. Life isn't just about football. The adventure starts when you finish and I'm looking forward to that.

"I've been playing at a professional level for 17, 18 years now and there's more to life. I love the game, don't get me wrong, I've cherished every moment of it."