Van der Sar: No decision on international future

Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar will take his time before deciding whether to retire from international football following Holland’s exit from the World Cup.

The Dutch were beaten 1-0 by Portugal in a bad-tempered second-round game on Sunday, and the United keeper is unsure if he wants to end his Oranje career on such a note.

“This is not the right moment [to decide],” the 35-year-old said. “I still have a really bitter feeling about our elimination.

“It’s better to take some time first. I will sleep on it for a couple of nights and then discuss it with the people for whom such a decision also has consequences.”

Van der Sar won a national record 113th cap against Portugal, but admitted the defeat had soured the occasion.

“Because of this defeat it doesn’t feel at all like a milestone,” he added. “I must get through the misery first to be able to fully appreciate the record.”

Coach Marco van Basten is hoping to be able to pick Van der Sar in future Holland squads, and said: “I have already spoken to him, but he wants some thinking time. I can only hope that he stays with us.

“Edwin is not only in the best of shape, he has also proven himself to be a perfect team captain. He is an absolute asset to the team.”