Burnley midfielder Steven Defour has announced his international retirement.

Injury this season wrecked Defour's hopes of making Belgium's World Cup squad.

And he declared this morning: "I have been working hard for the WC over the last few months. In the beginning it was quite clear that it would become a mission impossible. That has also come true. I'm not going to the World Cup for obvious reasons.

"I always thought that the World Cup would be one of my last actions as an international. Partly due to some serious injuries I want to extend my career as long as possible and for that I can focus everything on club level.

"I have had a very long career as an international. I had a great time and would like to thank everyone for it, from staff to players and supporters. But there are many players ready and there is a new generation coming. I wish them all the best."