Former United star Ruud retires

Malaga striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has announced his retirement from football, at the age of 35.

The former Holland international endured a difficult year since arriving in Malaga from Hamburg last summer, scoring just five times in 32 appearances.

However, the former Manchester United striker did help Malaga to their first ever top-four finish and ensure Champions League football for the first time.

Van Nistelrooy said: “Yesterday was my final game as a professional footballer. I wanted to play in the Champions League, but it is the moment to leave.

“I have arrived at my physical limit and I can’t play at the maximum level. I couldn’t have had a better send-off than this. I feel happy that I am the one taking this decision. I would like to thank Malaga, the technical and medical staff for an unforgettable year. I am proud to have won collective and individual titles, but my greatest satisfaction was to be able to work day after day, year after year.”

Van Nistelrooy scored 35 goals in 70 international appearances for Holland, including strikes at Euro 2004, World Cup 2006 and Euro 2008 and is the second highest all-time goalscorer in the Champions League with 54 from 81 appearances.