The Bulgaria football captain Dimitar Berbatov has quit the national team, hinting that fatigue and family commitments were behind his surprise announcement.
The 29-year-old Manchester United striker became Bulgaria's all-time leading scorer last November when he netted his 48th goal in a friendly against Malta on his 74th international appearance.
His decision is a stunning blow for Bulgaria coach Stanimir Stoilov, who has an uphill task in trying to qualify the Balkan country for the European Championship finals in 2012.
Bulgaria have been drawn with England, Switzerland, Wales and Montenegro in Group G, with the first matches scheduled for September 3rd when they visit Wembley Stadium.
Bulgaria did not qualify for the World Cup.
