Dirk Kuyt retires from international football

The Hague, Netherlands — Dirk Kuyt has retired from international football after making 104 appearances and scoring 24 goals for the Netherlands, including playing at three World Cups and two European Championships.

The 34-year-old Fenerbahce star on Friday said he took the decision because he believes he would spend too much time on the bench under new coach Guus Hiddink.

In a statement posted on the Dutch Soccer Association website, Kuyt says "I can't see myself putting a lot of effort into Oranje and not playing much."

He added: "I can look back with enormous pride on ten wonderful years in the Netherlands team."

Kuyt was a utility player known for his tireless running on the pitch. He played in midfield, attack and, at the World Cup in Brazil, even in defense.