The Inter Milan midfielder was hit by various injuries in recent years, which hampered his progress with club and country.

The 32-year-old, who is currently nursing an Achilles injury, had several muscle problems of late, and another setback could see him hanging up his France boots.

"It is certain that if my injuries were to persist, I will have to make a decision. Most likely quit the French team," Vieira told L'Equipe.

"If the situation repeats itself, I will have to face facts. I don't see myself playing five or six matches, come back to the French team and be out for two or three months because of an injury.

"If such a scenario were to repeat, it would break my heart but I would put the selection behind me."

Vieira won over 100 caps with Les Bleus, including three World Cup appearances in 1998, 2002 and 2006.

The former Arsenal man helped his country win the 1998 World Cup on home soil, before clinching the European championship two years later.