Spain Captain Sergio Ramos has vowed to play in the 2022 World Cup, even if it means leading the team in the tournament with a white beard.
Ramos saw Spain crash out of the World Cup following a shock defeat to Russia on Sunday, drawing criticism about the 2010 champions' performance in the tournament.
The shock has seen Andres Iniesta and Gerard Pique retire from the squad, while David Silva and Pepe Reina are expected to follow.
But the skipper said that the defeat has made him more determined to continue playing for Spain, and he will compete in Qatar in four years' time, even though he will be a stately 36 when the tournament comes around.
"This team has a very good youth system, players with a lot of personality. I would like to keep going many more years. I am leaving this World Cup with a terrible pain. I feel obliged to reach Qatar with a white beard," he said.
Ramos entered the tournament under a cloud of controversy, after he brought down Liverpool star Mo Salah in the Champions League final
Egyptians were furious at Ramos when Salah carried the injury to Russia and was not fit to start the Pharaohs first match against Uruguay, losing 1-0.
For the remaining games Salah struggled with a dislocated shoulder caused by the Ramos challenge.
Egypt went home with zero points and Salah scoring no goals, a hugely disappointing end to the tournament after months of hype.
Tag: Qatar News , FIFA World Cup 2018