After wearing the England shirt in a remarkable 14-year for his country, Steven Gerrard has announced his retirement from international duty.
The 34-year-old Liverpool captain made his debut back in 2000 in a 2-0 win over Ukraine at Wembley, going on to play a total of 114 times for England, score 21 times and representing the Three Lions at six major tournaments.
Gerrard captained the England team 38 times, ending up as the third most capped player of all time, behind Peter Shilton (125) and David Beckham (115) and leading other century club members like by Bobby Moore (108), Ashley Cole (107), Bobby Charlton (106), Frank Lampard (106) and Billy Wright (105).
According to the Football Association, Gerrard will continue in an ambassadorial role with England.
“I have enjoyed every minute of representing my country and it is a sad day for me knowing that I won’t pull on the England shirt again,” Gerrard said in an emotional statement.
“However, I do look forward to continuing my strong relationship with The FA and helping out in any way I can going forward. I’d like to firstly thank my family and friends for all their support throughout my England journey.”
“I’d also like to thank everyone who has been part of my international career, from the England Managers I’ve played under to the staff at The FA and, of course, all the players I’ve been fortunate to play alongside,” he added.
England coach, Hodgson said: “While I’m disappointed in the decision, I can entirely understand Steven’s situation and can have no complaints given the incredible service he has given to his country. He is an incredible man and a fantastic footballer who we have all been blessed to see in an England shirt so often. It is never by coincidence that people reach such a staggering figure as 114 caps, it is a mark of his wonderful talent allied to a huge drive and determination to live up to the highest standard.”
