Aston Villa Football Club

• Nickname:The Villains
• Founded:1874
• Manager:Paul Lambert

• Ground:Villa Park
• Capacity:42584

Laursen ends Denmark career

29 Jan 2009 - 15:10:24

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Aston Villa skipper Martin Laursen has announced his immediate retirement from international football.

The 31-year-old has decided to call time on his career with Denmark as he is currently sidelined for three months with a knee injury.

Laursen, who won 53 international caps during an eight-year period, has been troubled by knee injuries throughout his career.

"The thoughts of a return to the national team was an ambition which spurred me on through my injuries," he said.

"But my knee can no longer cope with playing for both Aston Villa and Denmark.

"In this situation the only answer is to make myself available to the club, who are my employers on a daily basis."