Wednesday, 27th August, 2014
Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso has retired from international duty with Spain.
The former Liverpool star turned out for Spain at this summer's World Cup, taking part in a disastrous campaign which saw the 2010 winners exit at the group stage in Brazil.
Now the 32-year-old has chosen to stand aside and make way for the next generation.
He said via his Twitter account: "I announce my retirement from international football. It's been an enormous honour for 11 great years."
Alonso won the European Championship with Spain in 2008 and 2012, while he also collected the World Cup in 2010.
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The midfielder made 114 appearances for Spain and joins Barcelona talisman Xavi as having recently retired from Spain duty.
Alonso's Spain debut came against Ecuador in April 2003.
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