Guernsey Press

Reaction to Wayne Rooney retiring from international football

England’s record goalscorer netted 53 times in 119 appearances.

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Wayne Rooney’s retirement from international football marks the end of an era, according to Football Association chairman Greg Clarke.

The England record goalscorer has called time on an international career which has seen him net 53 times in 119 appearances.

The Everton striker will not be part of Gareth Southgate’s plans to face Malta and Slovakia in World Cup qualifiers next month, with the England manager set to pay his own tribute on Thursday when he names his squad to play those two fixtures.

On a day when the former Manchester United captain announced he would not play for England any more, Clarke said: “It marks the end of an era in international football.

“Wayne Rooney is an icon of his generation and an undoubted legend of the game.

“As his country’s all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped outfield player, it goes without saying that Wayne has deservedly earned the right to forever be called a Three Lions great.

“I know it was always a huge honour for Wayne to pull on the England shirt and led his country as captain with great pride.

“It’s with sadness that we see Wayne call time on his international career but we respect his decision and expect to see him continue to contribute to Everton and the rest of the football world for many years to come.

“From street footballer to England captain, Wayne continues to be an inspiration for all.”

Former England captain Terry Butcher, who was capped 77 times by his country, said he thought Rooney had retired before others told him he had to.

Butcher told BBC Radio 5 live: “You do know as an international player when you have reached the point of no return. Sometimes you want to jump before you are pushed.

“I would have loved him to have gone to Russia and lead England at a fourth World Cup but he has had 13 great years and he will know in his heart and head that it makes sense to concentrate for Everton.”

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