Strupar bows out for Belgium

Derby County FC's Belgian striker Branko Strupar has announced his decision to retire from international football.

Fifth retirement
The 32-year-old has scored six times in 17 appearances for the national side and was a member of Robert Waseige's Belgium squad at the FIFA World Cup finals in Korea/Japan. But along with four other senior squad members - Marc Wilmots, Gert Verheyen, Johan Walem and Danny Boffin - Strupar has now decided to step
aside.

'There are enough players'
Strupar said he wants to concentrate on getting Derby promoted back into the English FA Premiership this year. He added: "There are enough players who are able to take my place. In particular I believe Wesley Sonck and Emile Mpenza should get the chance. They can bring Belgium a lot of joy in the next few years."