Bayer Leverkusen defender Sami Hyypia has no regrets leaving Liverpool in the summer.

After 10 distinguished years and 317 appearances, Hyypia's Anfield days ended in May.

"I didn't feel I needed a new challenge," he told the Daily Mail of his departure. "I had a great time at Liverpool. Ten years at a club like that. But when you are not playing and a chance comes to do something about it, then you go for it.

"I'm very sad that Liverpool are struggling a little bit. They're a great club, great fans, I'll always wish them success. But what's happening there is not really my business."

He also said: "As a player you always want to be part of those games but in the past few years I didn't play in many of the big games, against Chelsea or United or Arsenal.

"It's the manager's choice, I've nothing against that, I've nothing against Mr Benitez. But the big games are the ones you want most."