World Cup 2014: Netherlands forward Arjen Robben 'tired' of facing criticism following diving admission

The 30-year-old has become frustrated after being subjected to fierce criticism following his confession that he dived against Mexico

Joe Krishnan
Monday 07 July 2014 07:03 EDT
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Arjen Robben was the star once again in the World Cup quarter-final clash with Costa Rica
Arjen Robben was the star once again in the World Cup quarter-final clash with Costa Rica (Getty Images)

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Arjen Robben has hit out at critics who have accused him of diving, claiming he is "tired" of constant discussion about his actions on the pitch.

The Netherlands scraped into the World Cup semi-final after beating Costa Rica 4-3 on penalties following a stalemate in 120 minutes of play, but Robben was once again the centre of attention.

The Bayern Munich winger continued his impressive form, taunting the Costa Rica defence with a series of twists and turns, and came close to scoring on a number of occasions.

However, the 30-year-old - who admitted he dived in the 2-1 win over Mexico in the last-16 clash - came under the spotlight again for his theatrics. But Robben believes that it is unfair to criticise him because he is fouled so often.

Robben goes over the challenge of two Costa Rica defenders
Robben goes over the challenge of two Costa Rica defenders (Getty Images)

"In recent days there has been a lot of talk about diving and actually I'm tired of this bull****," the Dutch winger told NOS.

"I get kicked from all sides, but luckily I am still fit."

Robben was one of the star performers in the tie but didn't manage to get on the scoresheet, and the former Chelsea and Real Madrid man believes that he could have had more influence on the game if he was given the ball more.

He added: "I felt that I could make the difference, but didn't get the ball enough. I don't want to blow my own trumpet, but I felt I was so good [against Costa Rica].

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