Roma striker Francesco Totti has retired from international football.

Totti, who made 58 appearances for Italy scoring nine goals, took a break from international football after last summer’s World Cup, but he has now confirmed that he has no intention of resuming his career with Italy.

“The word finished is ugly but I have taken this decision to end the chapter with the national team for various physical reasons and not technical,” the 30-year-old told a news conference.

“I have weighed up for a year after the World Cup what to do and I have decided to finish with the national team in order not to create problems for the Azzurri staff. I am sorry, but health is the most important thing.”

One of the most gifted players of his generation, Totti has never fully realised his potential at international level despite his World Cup winners’ medal.

Last season he was Serie A’s top scorer with 26 goals and earned the European Golden Boot as Roma finished second in the league behind Inter.