Bergkamp Ready to Retire From Dutch National Team

AMSTERDAM —  Dutch striker Dennis Bergkamp announced his retirement from the national team Thursday after the Netherlands’ Euro 2000 semifinal loss to Italy in a penalty shootout.

Bergkamp, 31, said he wants to spend more time with his family and was “tired of all the games.”

Bergkamp, who has scored 37 goals in 78 caps, has been a permanent fixture on the national team since 1990 when he played his first international friendly against Italy.

While the Dutch forward had not scored once during the tournament, he had been crucial in striking partner Patrick Kluivert’s five-goal scoring success, feeding countless balls.

For Bergkamp, the Euro 2000 tournament offered a last chance at a major international title. However, it was not only the team’s failure to advance which infuriated the blond striker but the team’s eternal failure at penalty shootouts.

It marked the fourth time since Bergkamp began national duty that the team had lost in penalties.

Regarding his club career, Bergkamp says he is committed to Arsenal and could well finish off his career with the English team.

“I’m enjoying the English competition and with Arsenal we have chances to win things,” he said. “It’s too good to miss.”