14 years after Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard made his England national team debut, the Whiston-born player decides to hang up his boots as he announced his retirement from international football.
The 34-year-old ace made this decision after the Three Lions went through a disappointing 2014 World Cup campaign, a tournament which saw a Gerrard error lead to the goal that sent England packing in the group stage.
The player, who racked up 114 appearances and 21 goals for his nation, admitted to it being a hard decision, but thanked family, friends, team-mates, coaches, and fans for the time he spent wearing the Three Lions' jersey.
“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," said Gerrard.
"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.
Steven Gerrard calls an end to his international career
BREAKING: Steven Gerrard has announced his international retirement after 114 caps & 21 goals for England. pic.twitter.com/71kOIM08vO
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 21, 2014
Steven Gerrard retires from England duty. 114 Caps 38 As Captain 21 Goals A fantastic servant to English football. pic.twitter.com/DshVIcrtaz
— BBC Sporf (@BBCSporf) July 21, 2014
Steven Gerrard's England career in numbers: 114 caps. 38 caps as captain. 21 goals. 13 yellow cards. 1 red card. pic.twitter.com/IjUufFhnWZ
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) July 21, 2014
"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.
Tributes poured in for the 34-year-old England captain
Respect to an amazing footballer even though he's a Red, retiring from international duty Steven Gerrard. #Worldclass
— Tim Cahill (@Tim_Cahill) July 21, 2014
Next England captain??? Gerrard has been an incredible player. Surpassing 100caps is some achievement.
— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) July 21, 2014
When the king @kennethdalglish pays you the compliment of being the best Liverpool player of all time you take notice.. Gerrard class act.
— John Hartson (@JohnHartson10) July 21, 2014
Steven Gerrard has retired from international football. He's been a wonderful servant to his country. A great player who always gave all.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) July 21, 2014
Gerrard has racked up 21 goals as he made 114 appearances for the Three Lions
BREAKING: After 114 games and 21 goals, England captain Stevie G has retired from international duty pic.twitter.com/yl5gFZEciH
— FootballFanCast.com (@FootballFanCast) July 21, 2014
This decision of the Liverpool midfielder comes after the national side's poor World Cup campaign
Gerrard, who took part in three World Cups and three Euro tournaments, captaining the side at the World Cup in South Africa and Brazil, expressed his gratitude towards Roy Hodgson for making him the permanent team skipper.
“I’d especially like to thank Roy [Hodgson], 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 on the honour of wearing the England armband
Gerrard: It's a dream every time you put on the armband. I'm very proud to say I captained my country #ThankYouSteven pic.twitter.com/yYHphyLzWM
— England (@england) July 21, 2014
England boss Roy Hodgson expressed his disappointment in Gerrard's retirement, but stressed he must respect his decision, praising the Liverpool star.
“He is an incredible man and a fantastic footballer who we have all been blessed to see in an England shirt so often."
Will England be able to replace Stevie G?
.jpg)
