Both footballers named their age as the main reason for them to step down from international duty.

Jamie Vardy's short international career has come to an end, but he will not leave international duty all alone, since Gary Cahill also announced his retirement from the English National within minutes from Vardy's decision.

Leicester City's striker admitted that he had revealed his decision to coach Gareth Southgate as soon as the Three Lions were eliminated from the FIFA World Cup last summer.

"I mentioned it to him after the World Cup had finished, out in Russia, and then I spoke to him on the phone a couple of weeks ago. He let it die down a bit, so that I could have a bit more time to think, but I hadn't changed my mind," Vardy stated.

Added to Southgate's idea of rejuvenating the squad, Vardy felt that not having a regular spot in the team's lineup was forcing him to focus on his club and giving his family some of his spare time.

"When you get selected, you want to be playing. And if it's not happening, then for me personally now, at this age, it's better to be at home, spending that time with my family and training with my club," Vardy added.

Vardy's announcement was followed by Cahill, who seemed to have no regrets whatsoever after playing 61 games for the Three Lions.

"I've been hugely proud of what I've achieved, over 60 caps, I've captained my country on a few occasions, which has been a huge honour and something I've been really proud of," Cahill said.

Even if their decision seems to be final, both footballers agreed that they will never say no to the English team if there are no footballers to choose from.

"We've not shut the door completely. If the worst came to happen and everyone was injured, then obviously I wouldn't say no," Vardy said.

On the same subject, Cahill wouldn't hesitate to come back if the team is in need of experienced defenders.

"At the same time, in your football career you never want to shut a door completely, I've been hugely honoured to play for my country and if I'm ever needed, I'm there," Cahill concluded.

Vardy played 26 games for England, scoring 7 goals in the process. Meanwhile, Chelsea's center back scored five goals in 61 caps, adding three appearances as the team's captain.