体坛英语新闻：French defender Abidal to hang up boots at Olympiacos

PARIS, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- Former France defender Eric Abidal announced his retirement at Greek champions Olympiacos on Friday, just one day ahead of his final game for the club against Kalloni.

"It's a very important and difficult moment in my life as today I officially end my professional career here," said the 35-year- old ex Barcelona star. "It's solely due to personal reasons."

Abidal, who joined Olympiacos six months ago on a two-year contract, told the press conference that he'd received offers from both Barcelona and Olympiacos but not yet decided on his future.

"I just want to rest now, enjoy my family and then to think about my future," he said.

Abidal played in eight out of 14 Super League matches and all six Champions League fixtures with Olympiacos.

Before he left Barcelona in 2013, the central back, who was first diagnosed with a liver tumor in March 2011, spent six years with Barca, lifting the La Liga trophy for four times and twice crowned at Champions League.

Abidal returned for Barca after his health problems and was given the captain's armband by regular skipper Carles Puyol after being substituted in the 90 minute at the 2011 European final where Barca beat Manchester United 3-1, to allow him to lift the trophy.

He spent a second spell back in his native France after re- joining Monaco as a free agent in 2013.

Abidal, who turned pro in 2000 at Monaco, also won three Ligue 1 titles in succession with Lyon. He capped 67 for France, along with helping France to the 2006 World Cup final.