Koren, playing for English Championship side Hull City, decided to leave the national team "after long and careful reflection".

"This decision was an very difficult one for me, as I have always taken a great pride in playing for Slovenia and later also captaining our national football team," said Koren on his website on Sunday.

He reflected on the past successes of the national team in his statement, stressing that their joined efforts eventually provided results, "especially when we beat Russia in that memorable epic encounter that took us to the World Cup in South Africa".

In a reference to his goal against Algeria, Koren said that he felt honoured "that the goal I scored at this greatest and most prestigious football event will forever remain etched in the history of our national team".

"I would also like to take this opportunity to warmly thank all my team-mates, the entire technical and medical service staff, and of course, our fans. Together we have been a big happy family, and I will forever fondly remember the times we have spent together," he added.

The midfielder from Radlje ob Dravi started his career in Dravograd before signing with Norwegian Lillestroem in 2004, where he soon became considered the best foreigner of the entire Norwegian Premier League by many.

Koren signed over to English Championship club West Bromwich Albion in 2007. He has been with Hull City since 2010.