Dirk Kuyt announces decision to retire from international football

Fenerbahce's Dirk Kuyt has announced his retirement from international football after making 104 appearances for the Netherlands.

The 34-year-old, who spent six years playing for Liverpool, has opted to step away from international duty because he feels that he would not be given enough game time under new boss Guus Hiddink.

Kuyt released a statement via the Dutch Soccer Association saying: "I can't see myself putting a lot of effort into Oranje and not playing much. I can look back with enormous pride on 10 wonderful years in the Netherlands team."

Kuyt, who scored 24 goals for his country, featured in two European Championships and three World Cups.