Hierro Reiterates Retirement Claims

Last updated : 23 February 2005 By Mark Heys
Former Spanish captain Fernando Hierro has reiterated claims that he is to hang up his boots at the end of the season.

The Real Madrid legend had once again spoken of his intention to give up playing in the near future but for now though, he will savour fulfilling his lifelong ambition of playing in England and try and help Bolton Wanderers achieve their European aims

"For me it's a dream come true because after the Spanish league, it was the only other place that I thought about playing. What attracted me in particular was the way people live and breathe the game over here.

"When the opportunity arose to play in England at the age of 36, it was not an easy decision. Fortunately, I'd had a year in Qatar, which gave me time to reflect on things. So I decided to return to top-flight football and, truth be told, I'm loving it."

Having spent the best part of 18-years in the game the 36-year old is still unsure about what the future will bring once his does bring the curtain down on his illustrious career.

"It's possible that these will be the last few months of my playing career. In fact, I thought that I would end my playing days in Qatar until this opportunity came along. Once I've quit playing then I'll start thinking about what it is I really want to do next. Football has been my life. It's what gives me the most satisfaction, which is why I want to carefully consider my next move."