Skipper Steven Gerrard Retires From England

England captain Steven Gerrard has retired from international football.

The 34-year-old represented his country 114 times - putting him third overall behind Peter Shilton (125) and David Beckham (115).

Gerrard skippered England 38 times and scored 21 goals - but his Three Lions career ended on a low following a disappointing World Cup in which he and his teammates failed to win a game.

The Liverpool midfielder said: "I have enjoyed every minute of representing my country and it is a sad day for me knowing that I won't pull on the England shirt again.

Gerrard is the third most capped Englishman of all time

"To ensure I can keep playing to a high level and giving everything to Liverpool Football Club I believe this is the right decision.

"This has been a very difficult decision, one of the toughest I've had to make in my career. I have agonised over this since coming back from Brazil and have spoken to family, friends and people close to me in the game before coming to this point."

Gerrard, who first represented England in 2000, will take on an ambassadorial role with The FA.

Manager Roy Hodgson described him as "an incredible man and a fantastic footballer".

Wayne Rooney is thought to be a contender to take the armband

"While I'm disappointed in the decision, I can entirely understand Steven's situation and can have no complaints given the incredible service he has given to his country," he said.

"It is never by coincidence that people reach such a staggering figure as 114 caps, it is a mark of his wonderful talent allied to a huge drive and determination to live up to the highest standard."

Despite a glittering club career, Gerrard failed to get past the quarter-final stage of any tournament with England.

FA chairman Greg Dyke said his retirement was "sad news" and that Gerrard would be remembered as a "great". 

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher believes Hodgson now has a "big decision" ahead as there is "no stand out candidate" to replace Gerrard.

"Wayne Rooney and Joe Hart are the two leading candidates," said Carragher.

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