Ex-Liverpool striker Kuyt announces retirement

Dirk Kuyt has announced his retirement from football just days after helping Feyenoord win the Eredivisie.

The 36-year-old former Netherlands international, started his career at Utrecht before moving to Feyenoord and then to Liverpool.

He became a cult hero at Anfield thanks to his commitment on the pitch and persona away from it.

During his time with Liverpool he won the League Cup, his only domestic honour during his time in England.

At international level he collected an impressive 104 caps for Netherlands, playing in three World Cup and two European Championships in the process.

Kuyt netted a hat-trick to help Feyenoord in their chase for the title. Credit: PA

Feyenoord have confirmed that Kuyt will carry on working at the club as part of the technical team.

"Throughout my career I have always followed my heart when taking decisions and that goes for this one too," Kuyt told feyenoord.com.

"To me this feels like the right time to retire. I have had two fantastic years here since returning to Feyenoord, with this season's title as the absolute pinnacle.

"I had the dream of winning trophies and becoming a champion with Feyenoord. All my dreams have come true."