Rüstü Reçber ends international career

Turkey goalkeeper Rüstü Reçber will not be available for the national team any longer. This was announced on the website of UEFA.

While complimenting his team mates for their achievements at Euro 2008, the keeper revealed that Wednesday’s semi final with Germany had been his last game for Turkey.

“I am ending my international career, where I served with pride, glory and honour for 14 years. I would like to thank everybody who has helped me.”

Rüstü went to Euro 2008 as reserve goalkeeper but got his chance to shine when first choice goalie Volkan Demirel got suspended for two games.

The 35 year old Rüstü took the chance with both hands and helped Turkey to reach the semi finals by saving the deciding penalty in the shoot out with Croatia.

The goalkeeper, currently under contract at Besiktas in Istanbul, Turkey, made no less than 180 appearances for the national team.

Having first represented Turkey at Euro 96, Rüstü was part of the team that took his country to a whole new level. This was rewarded with a third place at the World Cup in 2002 and now the semi finals at Euro 2008.