Future doubts for Francis

British sprinter admits to future doubts after injury problems

Last Updated: June 27, 2012 10:31pm

Mark Lewis-Francis: Doubts over athletics future

Former Olympic gold medallist Mark Lewis-Francis has admitted he will have to consider his future after failing to reach the 100 metres final at the European Championships.

Lewis-Francis, who anchored Britain's 4x100m relay team to a famous triumph in Athens in 2004, has been hampered by injuries in recent years and admitted those - and perceived criticism - have taken their toll.

The 29-year-old from Birmingham said: "I tore my quad (muscle) the Sunday of last week, just a week before the (Olympic) trials, so you know I wanted to be here. I just couldn't find any power, I couldn't open my stride, it's terrible."

Asked if he would carry on next year, the former world junior champion added: "I don't know. I'm going to sit down and think about it. There's only so much criticism an athlete can take - we go through a lot on a daily basis.

"We get injuries here and there and all people see is us out there competing, and when we compete badly all of a sudden we're rubbish athletes.

"This season has been hard for me, I've had two quad injuries and I made it through the trials and made it onto this team. In all fairness I should be happy with that but you know I want more.

"But I think it's the end of the road, I'll have to sit down and see where I can go."

Lewis-Francis also dismissed his chances of making the British relay squad for London, adding: "I ain't got a chance in hell. We'll see but I don't think I'm going to get there for the relay, too many guys have run quicker than me this year.

"I've a couple more races left before the season ends, it's just all come around a little bit too quick. It's an unlucky season. It started off all right but I just can't get out of this 10.3 (second) zone and that's it basically."