Paris — David Ames has hinted at retirement from international hockey after a stellar 16-year career.
Ames, the GB and England men’s captain, said defeat against India in the Olympic quarter-final “will hurt for a long time” after going down in a shoot-out.
“If we are honest with ourselves we haven’t been as clinical as we need to be to be standing on podiums,” he said.
“Ultimately, one or two goals more we could have won that game with the circle pressure we have.”
Ames, 35, said he will now reflect on his future, an international career which started in 2008 with Ireland before playing for England and GB since 2015, competing in three Olympics and leading England to EuroHockey silver last summer.
Ames also told reporters: “That’s me finished as well – not the nicest way to go out but I’m very proud to have been part of this journey and these boys are going to be around for a very long time.”
He also said in a separate interview: “I have to sit down and reflect. I have given a lot. I made my debut since 2008 which feels like a hell of a long time ago. I have put every bit of my body through hell.
“Maybe the time will come that this is the last bit, but the coaching staff will help me decide that.”
Paul Revington, the GB coach, said: “He has been magnificent for GB Hockey and world hockey. It has been a pleasure and privilege knowing him. Magnificent human being and player.”
Sam Ward, the GB forward, was also asked whether this would be his last Olympics.
The Old Georgian said: “Who knows? It’s one of those things. Anyone who knows me, it’s pretty hard, the challenge is day-to-day.
“My body’s not the greatest. So, whether I have four more years, I don’t know. But I won’t be pulling the (trigger on playing for Great Britain) today, man.”
Following Belgium’s defeat to Spain, also in the last eight, the defending champions are also set to see several retirements.
Loick Luypaert, John-John Dohmen, Felix Denayer, captain Florent van Aubel and Cedric Charlier are all expected to retire.
