Portugal midfielder Rui Costa will bow out of international football after the Euro 2004 final against Greece. The 32-year-old AC Milan star did not give a reason for his decision, opting to focus on the Lisbon final instead.
"Part of me will certainly be sad, but above all, I am happy with the contribution I have made," he said.
Rui Costa, Luis Figo and Fernando Couto are the last survivors of Portugal's "golden generation", which won the World Youth Championship in 1989.
"It's not the end of my professional career but a farewell to a fruitful long spell with the Portuguese team," added Rui Costa.
"This is a decision that I have taken before the European tournament."
 |  I hope I have a chance to play and that can give the same performance I have done in the past two games - that would be very satisfying |
Rui Costa knows that he may begin the final on the bench, but he is hoping to be involved at some stage.
"It would be fantastic to lift the title," he said.
"Sunday can be a historic day for the players and for the whole nation.
"I have respected the coach's decision and tried to give my best when I was given the opportunity.
"I do hope that I have a chance to play and that I can give the same performance I have done in the past two games. That would be very satisfying."
MMIX
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