Rachel Yankey breaks Peter Shilton's record of internationals caps

Rachel Yankey

Arsenal women’s team midfielder Rachel Yankey has set a new record by becoming England’s most-capped international after the team’s match against Japan on Wednesday.

The English player accomplished the feat after overtaking Peter Shilton’s 125-cap record, which was recorded in 1990.

The 33 year old led England in their final and most crucial match before the Women’s 2013 Euro Championship tournament in Sweden.

“To have my name mentioned in the same breath as Peter Shilton is an honour,” she said. “It’s been an special day.”

“I was astounded I got one cap and if I never played again then it would have been fantastic to get just that one cap.

“It’s amazing that I’ve won 126 caps, but I want to go on and play more and still improve,” she added.

Yankey who made her England first team debut in a 4-0 victory against Scotland in 1997, was also part of the 2012 Olympics Team GB squad that reached the quarter-finals.

She has scored 19 goal for England, participated in two World Cups and currently preparing for a third European Championship.

Football Association chairman David Bernstein, when asked his opinions on Yankey, said: “Rachel has been a tremendous ambassador for her country on and off the pitch and is rightly highly respected throughout the game at home and abroad.”

Source: BBC Sports