Melville quits Wales

Defender Andy Melville has decided to quit international football with Wales.

In a statement from The Football Association of Wales on Monday, the former Sunderland and Fulham defender revealed that now was the right time to walk away from the international game with the Principality.

Melville stated that the departure of manager Mark Hughes to take full control of Premiership side Blackburn Rovers meant it was the right time for him to concentrate on his club career with The Hammers.

"I have always been very proud to play for my country, but I feel now is the right time to bow out," Melville said in the statement.

"A new manager will need to look at some of the up and coming youngsters and I would not wish to stand in their way."

Melville made his Wales debut in a 2-1 defeat to West Germany in 1989 and won 65 caps for his country, scoring three goals.

After missing last month's World Cup qualifiers against England and Poland, the 34- year-old's final Wales appearance came in their 1-1 draw in Azerbaijan back in September.