Barcelona's Carles Puyol commits to Spain for another 2 years

Barcelona captain Carles Puyol has stated his desire to play for Spain until 2012, meaning the European Championship held in the same year could be his last major tournament.

Puyol, a regular mainstay of the Spain defence for almost a decade, formed a formidable partnership with club team-mate Gerard Pique during this year’s World Cup and has come to a conclusion over his international future.

"After mulling over the issue a great deal, I have decided to continue playing for the national team for two more years," Puyol said on his personal blog.

The news will have come as a relief to Spanish fans after he previously said he was seriously considering retiring from international football.

The 32-year-old also revealed he had discussed his decision with Vincent del Bosque and Fernando Hierro among others.