Midfielder Pavel Nedved has ruled out a making a return to the Czech Republic national side in time for Euro 2008.

Already Nedved has twice retired from international retirement, first in September 2004 and then again in August 2006 after having returned to help the Czechs qualify for the 2006 World Cup.

The 35-year-old has not played for his country for nearly a year-and-a-half, allowing the Juventus midfielder to reap the benefits the less intensive playing schedule has afforded him.

His club's recent lack of involvement in European football has also helped him rest, but Nedved is adamant he will not make a third about-turn on his international career.

He told Sport: "I feel better than two years ago mainly because, both last season in Serie B and now in Serie A, we mostly play just one game a week.

"But two years ago, when we were playing in the Champions League, it was too much for me. I'm not sure if I could have managed another season like that.

"That is what it is all about. It does not matter which competition we play, it is about if I am able to play it or not. And I don't think I could handle that.

Asked if ending his retirement was a possibility, he added: "At this moment no rather than yes."

That Nedved's club career has benefited from his decision to retire in 2006 is clear, but the former Lazio and Sparta Prague ace is concerned he can no longer offer what he has in the past to national coach Karel Brueckner.

"I don't know whether I should return now. It is hard to say. I have not been there for a long time and I don't know if I could be of any use and if I could help the team.

"There are a lot of young players in the team, and they have qualified without any problems. Of course, the final tournament is a different experience.

"I am not considering it at all and I don't think it will occur to them to call me. As I said, it has been a long time since I played there.

"I think the situation is different now. I repeat it, I am not sure if I can help the team."

The Czech Republic finished top of their qualifying group and have been drawn in the same pool as co-hosts Switzerland, Portugal and Turkey for the summer tournament.

Vasek Kadlec / Eurosport