Moroccan veteran retires from international football

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NANCY, France, Feb 20, 2010 (AFP) - Defender Abdeslam Ouaddou announced his retirement from international football on Saturday.

The 31-year-old - capped 60 times and a member of the side that reached the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations final - said that it had been a difficult decision to take.

"This decision was very difficult because to play for one's country gives one enormous pride and is an honour," he told his French club Nancy's website.

"However, after 12 years in the national team it is time for me to leave the door open to younger players and to devote myself entirely to my club."

Ouaddou, who made his international debut in 2000, began his career at Nancy before enjoying spells at among other teams Greek giants Olympiakos and English Premier League outfit Fulham.