Once More, With Feeling

Claude Makelele, the best defensive midfielder in the world (my humble opinion), has announced his plans to retire after France's Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

We all remember that Makelele has retired before -- twice. He was brought back by Zizou once, and now Domenech. For once I agree with Mourinho -- it hurts, but it's time to let him go. Nice guy that he is, Makelele has agreed to continue playing for his country but insists he will not be part of the team if France makes it to Euro 2008 (which of course they will).

"For me, it is clear," the 33-year-old said in L'Equipe. "I will not be going to the Euros...I believe by participating in the qualification campaign I am fulfilling a reasonable objective. What I want is for France to qualify so that I can stop playing in peace."

Merci bien, Claude, pour tout. We'll miss you.