STOCKHOLM, July 6: Sweden's international striker Martin Dahlin said on Monday he was being forced to quit soccer because of a severe back injury. reports Reuters.

"I've delivered my last elbow, played my last game and scored my last goal." Dahlin told reporters with a smile.

Earlier this year Dahlin joined German first division club Hamburg SV on loan from English side Blackburn who were relegated from the premier to the first division at the end of last season.

Dahlin said he first sustained the back injury during a practice session two years ago at Blackburn.

The 31-year-old was one of Sweden's most successful strikers. scoring 29 goals in 60 internationals.