Tony Adams says he may retire at end of Arsenal contract

Former England captain Tony Adams, who retired from international soccer a week ago, has indicated he may quit playing altogether at the end of his current contract with English premier league club Arsenal.

Adams, who has 18 months left on his Arsenal deal, told the Observer newspaper that while he thought he would retire at the end of the domestic season in 2002 his decision to quit internationals could extend his career.

"Ending my international career may open things up. I may find that with the amount of time I have to recover I'll be able to go on for longer," he said.

Adams, 34, whose recent career has been blighted with injuries, said last week he felt obligated to Arsenal.

"I want to give the benefit of the time I have left in the game to Arsenal. I can't keep being cruel to them by playing for England then missing club games.

"It's not fair on them because they have been very good to me."