Gerrard quits international football

Steven Gerrard has hung up his England boots after 14 years and 114 appearances for the national team.

The 34-year-old captained Roy Hodgson’s side at the World Cup in Brazil, where England crashed out in the group stages with just one point.

Gerrard will now focus on extending his club career with Liverpool.

“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 told Liverpool FC website.

“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. In particular, the supporters have been amazing, not least in Brazil when they got behind the team despite the disappointing results.”

Gerrard captained England on 38 occasions and picked out England boss Hodgson for special praise after giving him the armband on a permanent basis.

“I’d especially like to thank Roy, firstly for giving me the captaincy permanently when he took the job, making me the proudest man in the country and allowing me to fulfill my childhood dream,” Gerrard added.

“He has been very understanding over the past few weeks and is a man I will always hold in the highest regard.

“This has been a very difficult decision, one of the toughest I’ve had to make in my career. I have agonised over this since coming back from Brazil and have spoken to family, friends and people close to me in the game before coming to this point.

“Most importantly, Brendan [Rodgers] has been fantastic and obviously I have to look after my body as much as possible to ensure I can give everything when I take to the field.

“To ensure I can keep playing to a high level and giving everything to Liverpool Football Club, I believe this is the right decision, and having Champions League football back at Anfield is another big factor in my decision.”

Gerrard will now assume a “high profile” ambassadorial role with the Football Association.

Tribute

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. I must respect his wishes due to the discussions we have had and the amount of thought and consideration he himself has given it. I wish him all the best in the future, although I know I can count on his continued support and influence as a helpful presence moving forward – Roy Hodgson.