Kevin-Prince Boateng retires from Black Stars

Boateng has retired after playing for Ghana for just 18 months

Ghana midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng has announced his retirement from international football.

The 24-year-old, an ex-Germany U19 player, switched nationality last year to represent the Black Stars.

The AC Milan midfielder, who played for Ghana for 18 months, said frequent injuries were behind the decision.

"The Ghana FA has received a letter from player Kevin-Prince Boateng on his decision to resign from the Black Stars," a Ghana FA statement read.

"According to Kevin, the physical demands of playing for both club and country at high levels are taking a toll on his health.

"The player also explained that in order to remain healthy and stay off any injuries, he has consulted his doctors and family over the matter and has decided to take the decision to excuse himself from national duties since he is on a special training that he has to interrupt to honour national invitations.

"The Ghana FA is yet to take a position on the decision of Kevin-Prince Boateng."

Boateng won nine Ghana caps and scored one goal - in the 2-1 win over the United States at the second round of the World Cup in South Africa last year.

The news comes as a blow for the Black Stars, who are seeking to win the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in January.

The midfielder has been in good form for his Italian club this season, scoring a hat-trick against Lecce in a league match last month.

But the decision does not leave Ghana short of midfield options, as youngsters Emmanuel Agyemang Badu, Kwadwo Asamoah, Andre Ayew as well as Michael Essien and Sulley Muntari are still available for the national team.