Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has indicated his willingness to continue his international career, but says he wants a reduced workload with the national team over the coming months.
Courtois, who was substituted in a controversial decision during the round-of-16 match at the FIFA World Cup on Friday, which Belgium lost 2-1 to Spain, had stated during the tournament that he was considering retiring from international football.
But the 34-year-old goalkeeper, who has earned 115 international caps since his debut in 2011, is now prepared to remain with the squad if a lighter schedule is guaranteed.
"I've already indicated that I'd like a calmer year, where I can stay in Madrid during the Nations League to focus on recovery. That way, Senne Lammens, Mike Penders or Maarten Vandevoordt can play," he said, referring to potential replacements.
Courtois, who was substituted after feeling a sting in his leg during the Spain match and watched as his replacement Senne Lammens fumbled the ball, allowing Spain to score the winning goal in the 88th minute, said: "If (Belgium) accepts that, I would be ready to continue."
"It's unfortunate that I had to come off in such a special match. I was feeling very good in the second half and made some saves. You want to stay on the pitch in moments like these," he added.
He explained to reporters: "But I took my goal kicks, and on the second one I felt pain in my quadriceps and told them I was no longer able to take long goal kicks."
"I could have stayed in goal, but coach Rudi Garcia said: if you're not fully fit, I'll substitute you. That's why I initially wanted to keep playing, but the coach decided to replace me. No problem with that — the team comes first, of course," he added.
Courtois expressed sympathy for Lammens, 24, who bore part of the blame for Belgium's defeat.
"It's unfortunate, of course, that Senne couldn't hold the ball, but that's football. I went to hug him. There isn't much you can say in a moment like that," said Courtois.
"It's just bad luck, but Senne is an excellent goalkeeper. He has a bright future ahead of him, and moments like these make you stronger. He shouldn't be blamed for it. That's part of the game," he added.
Belgium begin their UEFA Nations League campaign against Italy in Rome on 25 September.