WSL Full-Time
·14 October 2024
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Yahoo sportsWSL Full-Time
·14 October 2024
WSL Full-Time were informed of the news via an official press release from The Football Association this afternoon.
Houghton was capped by the Lionesses on 121 occasions at senior level while she represented her country at five major tournaments. The defender was a FIFA Women’s World Cup Bronze Medal winner in 2015 while she won four minor tournaments with England.
The 36-year-old retired from professional football at the end of last season and England fans will now be able to celebrate the player’s career at a special retirement ceremony at Wembley Stadium. The ceremony will take place ahead of England’s international friendly against Germany at the national stadium on Friday 25 October 2024.
Speaking following today’s announcement, Houghton said “It was the greatest honour and privilege of my football career to have represented England, and then to go on to captain my country for eight years.
“My time with England coincided with huge changes in women’s football, as we went through the period of amateur to professional. As I have said before, I hope that I left the game in a better place than when I came into it and that I contributed in some small way to giving the next generation of players a better future.
“I was fortunate to have played with amazing players and absolute legends of the game. I learnt from managers, coaches and support staff at every camp and tournament. I will forever look back on some amazing memories and it will be special to go back to Wembley and say goodbye to the superb England fans.”
Tickets for England’s international friendly against Germany remain on-sale and can be purchased by clicking here.