12.02.2012

A DIFFICULT DECISION - TO END MY CAREER ON THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM OF SLOVENIA

After long and careful reflection, I have decided to end my career on the national football team of Slovenia, effective today. This decision is an intensely difficult one for me, as I have always taken a great pride in playing for Slovenia and later also captaining our national football team.

Whenever I was called-up to play for my country, I gave my best, always firmly believing that jointly we could achieve good results. This eventually came true, and it moreover showed on the pitch, especially when we beat Russia in that memorable epic encounter that took us to the World Cup in South Africa. The World Cup was grand: I scored a goal, which secured Slovenia`s first ever World Cup victory, and of all my goals means most to me. Indeed I feel honoured that the goal I scored at this greatest and most prestigious football event will forever remain etched in the history of our national team.

I would also like to take this opportunity to warmly thank all my team-mates, the entire technical and medical service staff, and of course, our fans. Together we have been a big happy family, and I will forever fondly remember the times we have spent together.

Having said that, I wish the national football team all the best for the future. I, for one, will try and watch every match live and cheer for our boys on the pitch. Let me say again what I have been saying so far, that every single player on the team is very important, and that Slovenia must stick together.

Sincerely,

Robert Koren