Andriy Shevchenko knows how to retire.
You just say, “that’s it” and “I’m done” with the international game and so forth, as Shevchenko did today. And you thank everyone while speaking emotionally of how you loved playing for your country, etc. Meanwhile, we all write nice things and readers pile on with the grateful comments and then we all head out for grilled chicken and refreshing lemonade.
So, good on “Sheva,” who is Ukraine’s youngest and oldest goal scorer. He has a stellar 48 goals in 111 international. Now 35 years old, whatever the Ukrainian striker has left in the shoes will be expended on club ball (perhaps even in the United States). Shevchenko will play in on more Ukrainian friendly, then walk away.
See, this isn’t retirement rocket science.
Only, Dutch midfielder Mark van Bommel has found a way to muck it up a bit. Not surprising, perhaps, considering the recent epidemic of Dutch muckings ups.
Here’s what the longtime Dutch midfielder, 33, said today of his own international retirement:
“I don’t want to retire. Maybe there will a moment that the coach needs me in the future and then I will be available but for now it is time for talented young players.”