Kyle Walker: England legend retires from international football as World Cup draws nearer | OneFootball

Defender has been a key cog in Three Lions’ defence for 14 years

Kyle Walker has announced his immediate retirement from international football.

The Burnley and England defender, who has won 96 caps for his country, has featured at five major tournaments for the Three Lions.

Walker, 35, made his name at Tottenham before earning £50million move to Manchester City in July 2017.

He last played for England in a friendly against Senegal at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground in June last year, where England were beaten comprehensively 3-1.

The full-back announced his decision on social media, saying that the “book is now closed” after a “whirlwind journey” that has seen him reach the two European Championships finals under Gareth Southgate.

Walker has struggled to find his way into Thomas Tuchel’s recent squads, with the likes of Tino Livramento, Reece James and Djed Spence selected ahead of him in the right-back berth.

"I am sad to be making this decision, but I'm also very proud of what I've achieved with England," he said.

"Today is the time that comes to an end. It's good for me to have a little bit of closure to my career on the international stage."

The defender made his international debut against Spain back in November 2011, and went on to play in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups as well as Euro 2016, Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.

"We've tried to change the way that people look at English football," Walker continued.

"We've tried to change the way that the media looks at football and we've tried to take a little bit of the pressure off that you feel playing for England.

"Of course, I think there should be some pressure playing for your country, but we should all carry that because we're the chosen ones who are lucky enough to pull on that shirt and represent our country."

England manager Tuchel said of Walker: "I know all England fans will join me in congratulating Kyle on an incredible international career.

“Although I only worked with him for a short period of time, I was always aware that he was one of England’s greats who fully embraced the highest honour of representing his country.

“An international career spanning 14 years and five major tournament is testament to Kyle’s dedication. He can look back on his time with the Three Lions with great pride.”