England's record goalscorer Wayne Rooney has retired from international football.

The Everton forward, who also holds more England caps than any other outfield player, scored 53 goals in 119 appearances for his country.

England manager Gareth Southgate had phoned Rooney on Tuesday to invite the 31-year-old for a recall into his upcoming squad after two goals in two Premier League games following his return to Goodison Park.

But the former Manchester United captain told Southgate of his retirement decision in the same conversation.

Full Rooney statement

"It was great that Gareth Southgate called me this week to tell me he wanted me back in the England squad for the upcoming matches. I really appreciated that.

"However, having already thought long and hard, I told Gareth that I had now decided to retire for good from international football.

"It is a really tough decision and one I have discussed with my family, my manager at Everton and those closest to me.
"Playing for England has always been special to me. Every time I was selected as a player or captain was a real privilege and I thank everyone who helped me.

"But I believe now is the time to bow out.

"Leaving Manchester United was a tough call but I know I made the right decision in coming home to Everton. Now I want to focus all my energies on helping them be successful.

"I will always remain a passionate England fan.

"One of my very few regrets is not to have been part of a successful England tournament side.

"Hopefully the exciting players Gareth is bringing through can take that ambition further and I hope everyone will get behind the team.

"One day the dream will come true and I look forward to being there as a fan - or in any capacity."

http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/11001765/wayne-rooney-retires-from-england-duty

GOOd one....another owen gone

long overdue. Theres no way he could have made the national team first eleven. Hes lost his form

The last of England Golden generation

Buhari sef

I am sure he is eyeing the England Coach job

buhari why ?

No single international trophy to show for his goal stats.

Sometimes you need more than just talent.

Bald man

Keneking:
Buhari sef

I am sure he is eyeing the England Coach job

Watin concerned u self

End of an Era...A fantastic England player who always gave his all...
**respect boss**

Farewell!

Farewell Roo.

I have never been a United fan but I respect your achievements.... United legend, Three Lions legend bows out with style

When I first saw the news earlier and told my chelsea fan friend about it he started rejoicing and thanking God that he won't be in chelsea vs Everton match on Saturday

I couldn't stop laughing cos he did not let me explain further what it means.

Who would have thought Wayne Rooney is England all time highest goal scorer? Who would have thought Wayne Rooney is Manchester United all time highest goal scorer? No one

Goodluck Wazza. The only regret will be "not being successful with england like Manchester United".
Time to try and chase Alan Shearer's record in EPL. Legend of the game.

One of the finest player England ever produced. Legend wazza

maklelemakukula:
buhari why ?

If no say I dey hold gala and fanta, I go like give una dirty slap

Going by the story,it is quite clear that he took a french leave from the team. Retirement is hardly inferable here since he hasn't come out to make his retirement official. In any case,it is the end of an era as far as the 3 Lions is concerned.

Awwww....i love u wayne..still missing u@man united

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So sad, he should have wait for world cup...

Thank You legend, u will always be remember...


My captain ... Utd for life

119 Appearances

59 Goals

#Legend

Confam tori

Nice one by Rooney
Man Utd legend

He deserves respect from football lovers thruout the world........The right time to leave is when the ovation is loud...

Not now, Rooney, you're returning to your predatory form in Everton.
The three lions needs you now.

I salute u sir..

Tajbol4splend:
Who would have thought Wayne Rooney is England all time highest goal scorer? Who would have thought Wayne Rooney is Manchester United all time highest goal scorer? No one

Who would have thought he'd score 200 PL goals at 31

No fvcking one!!

#Legend