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2015 Women's World Cup

Australia veteran McCallum retires before WWC

Veteran Australia midfielder Collette McCallum announced she will retire prior to the 2015 Women’s World Cup, which would have been her third.

Nagging knee injuries became too bothersome for the 29-year-old to continue her career.

“Unfortunately my body can’t deal with the intensity and load required to play at this level anymore,” McCallum said. “I have pushed my knees as far as they can go and I am content with my decision to hang up the boots.

“Although it is disappointing to miss the World Cup, I feel that I have been fortunate enough to experience two previous campaigns of which the memories will never leave me.”

McCallum will play her final match with the Matildas on Friday away against Scotland, where she was born. She says she hopes to stay involved in soccer and specifically with the team.

Australia coach Alen Stajcic had high praise for McCallum.

“In my opinion, Collette is in the top four or five Matildas of all time and has represented our country with distinction on many occasions. She is a wonderful ambassador on and off the field for our sport.”

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