Kolo Toure retires from international football with Ivory Coast

Liverpool defender Kolo Toure has retired from playing international football for the Ivory Coast.

The centre-back was part of the Elephants squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations with a penalty-shootout victory over Ghana last week.

Toure told reporters: "It is with great emotion that I inform you that it is time to say goodbye.

"My goal was to win the Africa Cup of Nations and I must admit that it was a very difficult decision to make.

"I do love my country and especially love football, but at some point, there comes a time to stop."

Former Arsenal and Manchester City defender Toure made his Ivory Coast debut in 2000.