Manchester United's Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov has retired from international football.

"It was a difficult decision but sometimes we have to take difficult decisions," the 29-year-oldManchester United striker said.

Berbatov, who has been captain of his national side for the last three years, is the team's record goal scorer with 48 in his 74 international appearances, but has come under fire for his recent displays for his national team.

"It wasn't a decision I took lightly and I have reconsidered several times," he added.

"Everything has a beginning and an end and that is today (Thursday)."

The striker has also been heavily criticised atManchester United for his two lacklustre seasons at Old Trafford following a £30.75 million transfer from Tottenham, and is strongly rumoured to move on during the summer transfer window