Didier Drogba is retiring from his duties in Cote d'Ivoire or Ivory Coast, and now focusing on his club career in Chelsea.

He currently scored 65 goals and had 104 appearances wearing an Ivory Coast shirt.

"It is with much sadness that I have decided to retire from international football," Drogba wrote in a statement released on Friday."

The player is already 36 years old, but he still one of the best players in his national team.

"These past 12 years in the national team have been full of emotions. From my first call-up to my last match, I have always tried to give my best for my country.

"I am very proud to have been captain of this team for eight years and to have contributed to placing my country on the world stage of football, taking part in three World Cups and two African Cup of Nations finals.

"I cannot convey enough thanks to the fans for all the love and support during these years. All my goals, all my caps, all our victories are for you - I love you."

A goal.com report states that:

"Drogba made his Cote d'Ivoire debut in September 2002, against South Africa, and broke his international duck the following February, in a 3-0 win over Cameroon.

"The attacker captained his country in their first ever appearance at the World Cup, in 2006, netting in the Elephants' opening game, a 2-1 loss to Argentina.

"Drogba struck again at South Africa 2010, against Brazil, but he failed to find the net in his three appearances at this summer's tournament as Cote d'Ivoire failed to make it out of the group stage for the third time in a row."

The striker just transferred to Chelsea this season via free transfer, after his contract with Galatasaray expired.

With reports from: Goal.com