VETERAN Wales striker Dean Saunders name will definitely be missing from Mark Hughes' squad named today for the World Cup qualifiers against the Ukraine and Poland.

Although Hughes will name his squad at the Vale of Glamorgan Hotel, Saunders is stepping down from international football after winning 75 caps for his country - a record for an outfield player.

First capped against the Republic of Ireland in 1986, Saunders has decided now is the time to quit, with John Hartson and Craig Bellamy forming a good partnership.

"I have had a fantastic run, but I feel that with John and Craig beginning to form such a good partnership, it's the right time to go," said the much-travelled 36-year-old Bradford City striker.

"I have told Mark Hughes and asked him not to name me in his squad for the World Cup ties against Poland and the Ukraine next month."

Saunders has played for a whole host of clubs in his career, including Brighton, Oxford, Derby, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Galatasary, Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United, Benfica and Bradford.

He scored 22 goals for his country and overtook the 73 cap record shared by Ian Rush and Peter Nicholas against Armenia before adding his 75th cap against the Ukraine in March.

Those who are likely to figure in Hughes squad today are Leicester City midfielder Robbie Savage and Tranmere's Jason Koumas, after the Wrexham-born midfielder pledged his allegiance to Wales.

Although still struggling after a knee operation, Savage is hoped to be fit for the home international on June 2.