Fran Kirby retires from international football | OneFootball

Fran Kirby has announced her retirement from international football after making 77 appearances for the Lionesses.

The Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder made her last appearance for England in the 6-0 defeat of Portugal at Wembley last week.

"After being in the England team since I was 21, it’s time to close that chapter of my life," Kirby said in a statement.

"I didn’t ever want this day to come, but I cannot tell you how proud I am that it happened. It’s been the biggest honour to represent my country, one that I had only dreamt about as a young girl.

"I’ve played with incredible players, worked with some incredible managers, played in some amazing tournaments and have some irreplaceable memories.

"My journey has been full of ups and downs, setbacks and achievements. Enough has been said and written about those, but regardless of whatever was thrown at me, I want you all to know that every time I put on that England badge I gave 100 per cent. Every single call up, I accepted my role and did whatever was needed for the team. I wanted England to win. I’ve always been there to help England win."

The 31-year-old ending her international career is the second big retirement in recent weeks for England with Mary Earps also stepping back from England duty.