Hierro set to end reign of Spain

Spain captain Fernando Hierro will bring his 13-year international career to an end when his team complete their World Cup campaign.

"It's a very difficult moment for me," the 34-yearold-central defender said today. "I took the decision back in December last year and announced it to the football federation and the coach. It had become clear to me that this was the ideal moment. It's time for me to dedicate myself to my club, Real Madrid."

Remarkably for a defender, Hierro is Spain's leading international goalscorer as well as being the country's most capped outfield player. This is his fourth World Cup.