Arjen Robben Retires From Int’l Football After Netherlands W/Cup Qualifying Failure

Netherlands captain Arjen Robben has retired from international football after his side failed to qualify for next year’s World Cup in Russia.

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid winger scored both goals in a 2-0 win over Sweden, but they were not enough for the Dutch to reach the play-offs as they finished third in Group A behind group leaders France and Sweden.

Robben made his first debut for the Holland side in April 2003 and Tuesday’s match saw the 33-year-old win his 96th cap with a fittingly brilliant performance, scoring 37 times.

“It hasn’t been an easy decision but I am 33 and now must give my full focus to my club,” the Bayern Munich forward said.

He is joint fourth on the Netherlands’ all-time goalscorer list, level with former Arsenal forward Dennis Bergkamp.

Robben was part of the squads which finished third at the 2014 World Cup and lost 1-0 to Spain after extra-time in the 2010 final.

“Fourteen years, it’s beautiful, magnificent even.

“I will always remember the 2010 World Cup and 2014. Those are my best memories. During those two competitions we formed a real team,’’ said the Bayern Munich midfielder.

Robben, who has had plenty of injury problems over the years, was quoted by vi.nl as saying: “The man of glass has lasted the longest.”