Ryan Nelsen urged to quit New Zealand by Sam Allardyce

Nelsen's New Zealand were the only unbeaten team in the 2010 World Cup

Blackburn Rovers manager Sam Allardyce has said that he would like to see captain Ryan Nelsen retire from international football.

The 33-year-old, who also skippered New Zealand at the 2010 World Cup, picked up a thigh strain while away with his country earlier this month.

Allardyce told BBC Radio Lancashire: "I think he's done his job. He's had the pinnacle of his success.

"He's been the king of New Zealand football for many, many years now."

He added: "His crowning glory was the World Cup being undefeated but playing football at this level is what he loves.

"If you want to play football at this level then give yourself the best opportunity to play it as long as you possibly can. We have seen many people retire from international football who are younger than him and extend their careers on."

Nelsen, who joined Blackburn in 2005 from MLS team DC United, missed the recent goalless draw with Sunderland, which Allardyce puts down to more than 24 hours spent on a plane returning to England.

He said: "My consideration is that, is he ever really ready after that distance of travel to play a game in the hardest league in the world?

"It's a dilemma for me but I can't force his hand."