Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has announced his decision to
retire from international duty with the Ivory Coast.
The 36-year-old, regarded as one of his country's finest
talents, scored 63 goals - a national record - in 104 appearances,
the last of
which came against Greece in the World Cup.
Drogba made his international debut versus South Africa
in September 2002 and went on to feature in three World Cups.
He also helped his the Ivory Coast reach the Africa Cup
of Nations on two occasions, but suffered defeats in the final
to Egypt in 2006 and Zambia in 2012.
"It is with much sadness that I have decided to retire
from international football," Drogba wrote in a statement posted on his
official Twitter account.
"These past 12 years in the national team have been
full of emotions. From my first call-up to my last match, I have always tried
to give my best for my country.
"I am very proud to have been part of this team for
eight years and to have contributed to placing my country on the world stage of
football, taking part in three World Cups and two Africa Cup of Nations finals.
"I cannot convey enough thanks to the fans for all the
love and support during these years. All my goals, all my caps, all our
victories are for you - I love you.
"I also owe much gratitude to my team-mates - the
players with whom I have shared all these emotions and I wish you all much
success for the future and a very warm welcome to the new manager."
There appeared a sense of inevitability about Drogba's
decision as he started just once for the Ivory Coast in three Group
C matches at the World Cup in Brazil, as the African nation were
eliminated at the pool stage after winning just one match.
Drogba secured a return to Chelsea on a one-year deal last
month after originally enjoying an eight-year stint at Stamford Bridge between
2004 and 2012.
During his original spell he won the Premier
League on three occasions as well as four FA Cups, two League Cups and the UEFA
Champions League.
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