Dirk Kuyt spoke to the NOS about his decision to retire after winning the league title with Feyenoord.
- By James Rowe
- Follow James on Twitter
The 36-year old announced his retirement on Wednesday, bringing an end to a 19-year career which saw the forward represent Utrecht, Feyenoord, Fenerbahce and Liverpool, while earning over 100 caps for Netherlands.
Kuyt said on his retirement, ”It was a difficult decision. Football is my life. But if you can play the last game of your career like last Sunday and win the league in such a way then you are grateful for everything that I have experienced.
”I made my decision a few weeks ago but I wanted to focus on winning the league with my teammates and after the euforia of winning the league I wanted to discuss it with Feyenoord.
”I want to remain associated with Feyenoord. We have achieved great things the last two years and I am happy to be guided in my new role with the club.
”I also want to do a manager’s course and see what the most logical role is for me within the club. I spoke to Martin van Geel and he even mentioned the possibility of doing the job that he does in the future.
”I am delighted with how my career has gone. I have squeezed every last drop out of it. I started at Quick Boys then FC Utrecht, Feyenoord, Liverpool and Fenerbahce and then be able to return to Feyenoord and furfil the ambition of becoming champions is a dream come true.”
Follow
“Legend”. A phrase tossed around football these days like confetti with the vast majority of it landing on the unworthy. Kuyt undeniably deserves the moniker – never gave less than 100% of himself, whoever he turned out for and a model professional clearly respected by the majority of the unbiased – a reliable measure indeed.
Still has much to offer Feyenoord.