Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain has confirmed he has retired from international football as he prepares to focus on his club career with Chelsea.

The 31-year-old made 75 appearances for the South American giants, scoring 31 goals in the process.

He played in three World Cups for his country in 2010, 2014 and 2018 although he was never able to lift the trophy.

With his club career now at a crossroads, Higuain has decided that he would rather retire, with his last appearance for the Albiceleste coming in a 2-1 win over Nigeria in the World Cup last June.

Explaining his decision in an interview with Fox Sports, Higuain said: “My time with Argentina is over. Thinking things through in depth, my time is up.

“To the delight of many, now I will only look at it from the outside. I have spoken to (manager Lionel) Scaloni and told him my point of view.

“I’ve made the decision because I want to enjoy my family, I want to spend time with my daughter, and at the same time, I feel that I gave my country everything I could.”

Higuain joined Chelsea on loan in January and he has scored three goals in 10 appearances since leaving Juventus for a second time. When asked about his club future, he told reporters: “I’m fully focused on my commitment to Chelsea.

“The Premier League is amazing and I really want to enjoy it. It’s very competitive indeed.”

Higuain will be hoping to make a big impression in Sunday’s clash with Cardiff in Wales. The Bluebirds are 7.50 to win, with the draw 4.50, while Chelsea are 1.44 to grab all three points.