Barcelona captain Carles Puyol has stated his desire to play for Spain until 2012, meaning the European Championship held in the same year could be his last major tournament.

Puyol, a regular mainstay of the Spain defence for almost a decade, formed a formidable partnership with club team-mate Gerard Pique during this year’s World Cup and has come to a conclusion over his international future.

"After mulling over the issue a great deal, I have decided to continue playing for the national team for two more years," Puyol said on his personal blog.

The news will have come as a relief to Spanish fans after he previously said he was seriously considering retiring from international football.

The 32-year-old also revealed he had discussed his decision with Vincent del Bosque and Fernando Hierro among others.