Stam to retire after Euro 2004

Giant Dutch defender Jaap Stam has confirmed he will retire from international football after this summer's European Championship.

The defender has just signed a deal with Serie A Champions Milan and he claims he wants to dedicate his efforts to his new club.

The 31-year-old, who is a key member of Dick Advocaat's Oranje squad, has also stressed that he wants to dedicate more time to his family.

"I will be away with Milan a lot and also I have a family at home," Stam told the Dutch press.

"For this reason I will play my last game for Oranje at the European Championship."

Stam is one of the most experienced players in the Dutch camp and will look to bow out on a high with success in Portugal.

Johnny Heitinga is seen as the natural successor to Stam at the heart of the Oranje defence and Advocaat will look for the Ajax youngster to take charge in the World Cup qualifiers.