Before the international break, Blues goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer took time out to entertain queries from fans on Twitter using Chelsea's official account.

The Australian has been the number one man for the Socceroos in front of goal for almost two decades, but has surprisingly retired a about fortnight ago despite expressing his interest in representing his country in the World Cup in 2014, for one last time.

"It was very difficult, but I knew the time was right," Schwarzer, already aged 41, responded to a fan who inquired of his sudden retirement.

Schwarzer vividly recalls the memorable feat of qualifying for the World Cup in 2005, which he treats as "the" highlight of his long and fruitful career.

"We beat Uruguay on penalties and qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 35 years - it was an amazing, historic night," he recalled.

Mark moved to Chelsea in July and has since been having a great experience with the club and the squad.

"I really enjoyed it all. It was a great way to get my career underway at my new club," he explained.

"Though of course there was also an initiation to pass, as tradition holds that all new squad members have to sing to the rest of the group. 'I sang Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport!"

Despite his age, Schwarzer showed that there is still much competitiveness left in him by keeping two clean sheets in their Capital One Cup fixtures against Swindon and recently, against Arsenal.

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