Wayne Rooney has retired from international football.
The former England captain announced his decision to step away from the national team on Wednesday afternoon. Rooney turned down the chance to return to the squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Lithuania.
Gareth Southgate wanted to recall the 31-year-old after his impressive form for Everton in the opening games of the Premier League seson. However, Rooney decided against returning and retires as England’s record goalscorer with 53 goals in 119 appearances.
Dreams can come true and playing for @England has been exactly that. Thanks to everyone involved it's been amazing – https://t.co/GfiT7oVCpx
— Wayne Rooney (@WayneRooney) August 23, 2017
Rooney posted a statement on his official website, explaining his decision, which reads:
“It was great 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. 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 hasn’t played for England since the November 2016 fixture against Scotland. His first cap was back in February 2003 against Australia when he was just 17.
53 goals. 119 games. Forever a #ThreeLions legend.
Thank you, @WayneRooney. pic.twitter.com/j5iT6XHJKz
— England (@England) August 23, 2017
