Rustu retires, head held high.

The former Barcelona keeper, Rustu Recber has retired from international football following Turkey's defeat in the semifinal clash against Germany.

Rustu Recber had been a revelation in the 2002 World Cup finals, helping Turkey to reach the semifinals, only to lose against the eventual winners Brazil.

Turkey had the ageing 35 year old in the 23-member squad for the Euro 2008, although not as a regular first teamer. The suspension of first choice goalkeeper Vulkan Demirel forced Rustu to take charge, and he did it in style helping Turkey to win the crucial quarter-final match against Croatia. An impressive Rustu stopped a penalty in the shoot outs and helped Turkey march through to the semifinals.

The 35-year old decided to call it a day after the semifinal defeat against Germany. He has 118 caps to his name and had played for 14 years for Turkey.

He said: "I am ending my career with Turkey. I served with pride, glory and honour for 14 years. I’d like to thank everybody who has helped me."