England
captain Steven Gerrard has announced his retirement from international
duty, the Football Association said on Monday, Reuters reports.
The Liverpool midfielder won 114 caps for his country after making his debut in a 2-0 win over Ukraine at Wembley in 2000.
“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,” he told the FA’s website (thefa.com).
Gerrard’s appearance at the World Cup in
Brazil last month was the sixth time he had represented England at a
major tournament, but it ended in failure as Roy Hodgson’s side went out
in the group stage.
Gerrard appeared to be particularly
affected by the disappointment — never more so than after the 2-1 defeat
by Uruguay, when his misjudged header allowed Luis Suarez to score the
late winner.
The 34-year-old said he was retiring from internationals in part to ensure he can keep playing at a high level for Liverpool.
“I’d like to firstly thank my family and friends for all their support throughout my England journey,” Gerrard said.
“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.
“In particular, the supporters have been
amazing, not least in Brazil, when they got behind the team despite the
disappointing results.
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