Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has called time on his international career after turning down the chance to be part of the England squad for the upcoming world cup qualifiers against Malta and Slovakia.
In a statement, released on Wednesday, the Everton striker said England manager Gareth Southgate wanted to recall him to the squad for the forthcoming games against Malta and Slovakia.
But he respectively declined — instead informing Southgate he wants to concentrate on playing for Everton.
‘It was great that Gareth Southgate called me this week to tell me he wanted me back in the England squad for the upcoming matches. I really appreciated that,’ he said in his statement.
‘However, having already thought long and hard, I told Gareth that I had now decided to retire for good from international football.
‘It is a really tough decision and one I have discussed with my family, my manager at Everton and those closest to me.
‘Playing for England has always been special to me. Every time I was selected as a player or captain was a real privilege and I thank everyone who helped me.
‘But I believe now is the time to bow out.
‘Leaving Manchester United was a tough call but I know I made the right decision in coming home to Everton. Now I want to focus all my energies on helping them be successful.
‘I will always remain a passionate England fan.
‘One of my very few regrets is not to have been part of a successful England tournament side.
‘Hopefully the exciting players Gareth is bringing through can take that ambition further and I hope everyone will get behind the team.
‘One day the dream will come true and I look forward to being there as a fan — or in any capacity.’
Rooney, who served as England captain 22 times, made his national debut in a 3-1 loss to Australia in February 2003 aged a then record 17 years and 111 days.
Wayne Rooney vs Croatia at Euro 2004
Quitting international football comes two days after he scored his 200th English Premier League goal in Everton’s 1-1 draw at Manchester City.
The 31 year old retires with an England record 53 international goals in a record 119 games.
ENGLAND’S ALL-TIME RECORD GOALSCORERS
Wayne Rooney 53
Bobby Charlton 49
Gary Lineker 48
Jimmy Greaves 44
Michael Owen 40
Tom Finney 30
Nat Lofthouse 30
Alan Shearer 30
Viv Woodward 29
Frank Lampard 29