Liverpool midfielder James Milner announced his retirement from international football on August 5, Friday. The 30-year-old made his debut in the summer of 2009 and has been a regular inclusion in the Three Lions squad. He was even included in the England squad for the recently concluded European championship in France.
England, who were managed by Roy Hodgson, were eliminated from the Round of 16 following their disappointing 2-1 defeat at the hands of Iceland. Hodgson later resigned from his post as the national team's manager.
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Hodgson was replaced by former West Ham United and Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce earlier this summer. The former Manchester City midfielder held talks with the new coach before announcing his decision.
Milner made 61 appearances for his country earlier admitted that he is considering his position with England. On Friday, he confirmed he has ended his time with the Three Lions.
A statement in the FA's official website read, "James Milner has confirmed his retirement from international football."
"Following a recent conversation with England manager Sam Allardyce, the Liverpool midfielder has opted to step away from Three Lions duty.
"The 30-year-old made his senior debut in 2009 before going on to amass 61 caps, including being a squad member at two World Cups and two European Championships."
Allardyce was full of praise for the midfielder, who decided to hang his boots from international football. Milner could star in various positions for his teams and had played as a full-back and winger in recent seasons for club and country.
“James has had the chance to reflect on his international career in recent months and consider his next steps, particularly with a young family at home and having allowed himself little free time away from the professional game in the past 15 years," Allardyce told the FA's official website.
“After we had a lengthy conversation with him earlier this week, he has decided to take a step back from international duty; a decision I fully respect.
“James can be proud of his seven-year career as a senior England player and has never let his country down when called upon. His club career, already glittering, has many years ahead and we wish him well with Liverpool this season and beyond.”
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Allardyce also stated that the Liverpool star would still be open to a return to the national side if there was a need for him to join the Three Lions in the near future.
“In what is the mark of a true professional, James is a proud Englishman and has acknowledged that he would be prepared to step up again if I ever needed him to play a specific role of importance within my team.”
