By Simon Austin

He's only 30 and has been such a talisman for Wales over the years Dean Saunders

Wales legend Dean Saunders says John Hartson's retirement from international football has dealt a "massive blow" to the country's hopes.

Hartson, 30, announced the news on Monday, saying he wanted to concentrate on club football with Celtic.

Saunders, who scored 22 goals for Wales in 75 appearances, said: "This is a sad day for Wales - it's a massive blow.

"I wish I could have spoken to him before he made the decision and tried to persuade him to change his mind."

Saunders, 41, added: "He's the physical presence for the team up front. Craig Bellamy, Rob Earnshaw and Ryan Giggs are all very good players but they're slight and need a foil like John, who can hold up the ball and is such a threat in the air.

"The news is a big surprise because he is only 30 and has been such a talisman for Wales over the years.

"But I'm sure he's got his reasons."

Saunders retired from international football only four years ago and until 2 February was working at Newcastle as assistant boss.

He said: "I was 37 when I played my last game for Wales and carried on for as long as I could.

But it did get to the stage where my age caught up with me. And I didn't want to make long trips to places like Russia and not get on the pitch.

"I also knew Wales were well-equipped in attack, with players like Hartson, Bellamy, Giggs and Earnshaw."

Saunders - who had been expected to be sacked along with manager Graeme Souness - is still employed by Newcastle after being suspended by the club last week.