Xavi scoffs at retirement talk

(05-11-2010) Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez has dismissed rumours that he is ready to bring the curtain down on his international career. The 30-year-old, who was instrumental to Spain’s success at the 2010 World Cup, has battled an Achilles injury this season. He however insists that he wants to help his country defend both their European Championship and World Cup titles. "I want to deny that I want to leave the Spanish national team,” said Xavi on Thursday. "I want to go to the European Championship finals (2012) and to the World Cup in Brazil (2014).” He added: "I want to play against Portugal and in every game, even friendlies. I'm excited about playing for the national team. I get the feeling that my commitment is continually being doubted when I've never given any reason for that.” Xavi has 97 international caps.