Bayern Munich forward Arjen Robben has admitted that thoughts of quitting the game have gone through his mind.
Robben is sidelined with a thigh injury which has its origins in his lower back, the latest in a long line of injuries which have hampered his career.
He spent six months out following the 2010 World Cup, when Bayern criticised the Dutch Football Association of making him play while injured, and there is no date for his return from his current ailment.
With such a history of injuries and the high proportion of time spent in the physiotherapist's room rather than out on the field, Robben admits retirement does become a consideration.
"Yes, with all of the disappointment and frustration with the comeback taking so long, I do have such thoughts," said the 28-year-old.
"It is really frustrating when you do everything for your job, but your body doesn't play along."
However, Robben also says he has no serious plans to hang up his boots before his time.
"I enjoy football and scoring goals too much," he told Germany's Bild newspaper.
"I would never plan on prematurely quitting voluntarily. No worries, I will be back."
