Carragher reiterates intention to retire at end of season

09-Mar-2013 12:23:00 AM

The 35-year-old is preparing to make his 500th league appearance against Tottenham at Anfield on Sunday, but is still adamant on finishing his playing career in May

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has underlined his intention to retire at the end of the season.

The veteran decided earlier this term to hang up his boots in May, but impressive form of late has prompted speculation over a possible delay.

However Carragher, who is in line to make his 500th league appearance when Tottenham come to Anfield on Sunday, is realistic about his future opportunities in the first team and is not tempted to renege on his previous announcement.

"I made my decision and nothing that's happened since has changed my mind about that," Carragher told reporters. "I've not had any second thoughts just because things are going well.

"People say because I'm playing I should carry on for another year. But in fact being back in the team only confirms for me that I've made the right decision.

"I want to go out on a high, proving I can still perform at that level. I want to stay in the team for the rest of the season and help the club get as many wins as possible - that's my target. I can't think of a better way to go out.

"Obviously the previous 12 months had been difficult in terms of starting games. You never lose that buzz of wanting to play every week and I'm delighted to be back in the side.

"I could play on for another season but the fact is the club will be buying players in my position in the summer and I can't go back to being a substitute again."

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