Kyle Walker announces international retirement before World Cup | Football | Sport

Kyle Walker has announced his retirement from international duty. The defender earned 96 caps for England and represented his country at numerous major tournaments. Following his senior England debut in November 2011, the 35-year-old went on to serve the national team under four different managers, featuring for Fabio Capello, Roy Hodgson, Gareth Southgate and Thomas Tuchel.

The full-back established himself as a crucial part of England’s backline during the most successful era for the national side in recent memory. Addressing his decision, Walker said: “Playing for England has always been the greatest honour of my career. Every time I pulled on the shirt, it meant a huge amount to me and my family.

“After a lot of thought this feels like the right moment to step away and allow the next generation of players to come through.

“I leave incredibly proud of the journey and grateful to every manager, teammate, person behind the scenes and supporter who has been part of it.”

“The England fans are some of the most special out there, the roar of the 12th man kept us fighting and I now join them in wishing the lads luck as they enter the World Cup.”

Looking back on his international career, Walker added: “Representing your country is the biggest thing you can do in football. Those memories with England will stay with me forever.”

Three Lions manager Tuchel stated in his tribute: “I know all England fans will join me in congratulating Kyle on an incredible international career.

“Although I only worked with him for a short period of time, I was always aware that he was one of England’s greats who fully embraced the highest honour of representing his country.

“An international career spanning 14 years and five major tournaments is testament to Kyle’s dedication. He can look back on his time with the Three Lions with great pride.”

In her tribute, Walker’s wife Annie Kilner added: “Kyle has always taken enormous pride in playing for England.

“It has meant a huge amount to him and to our whole family. International football requires incredible commitment over many years and we are all very proud of everything he has achieved in an England shirt.”

Beyond his England duties, Walker has amassed one of the most distinguished club careers amongst English defenders in modern times, securing numerous Premier League titles, the Champions League and a wealth of domestic silverware.

Walker will now concentrate on the next chapter of his playing days at Burnley as the club fights to stave off relegation to the Championship.