France retires Mascherano

Javier Mascherano has retired from international football following Argentina’s World Cup exit

Mascherano played in Argentina’s stunning 4-3 defeat to France in Kazan on Saturday in the round of 16 fixture.

The ex-Barcelona player confirmed his retirment at the post-match conference amid tears.

“It’s time to say goodbye,” he said with tears in his eyes.

“This is football, many times what you want does not happen.

“The important thing is to have nothing to reproach yourself with.”

Mascherano, 34, has been a mainstay in the Argentina side for years.

Mascherano who plays for Chinese side Hebei China Fortune was part of the squad that reached the World Cup final in 2014 before losing to Germany by a a lone goal.

He had initially quit the national team in 2016 before he was persuaded to come back.