Kyle Walker has announced his retirement from international football. The defender won 96 caps for England and represented his country in a number of major tournaments. After making his England debut in November 2011, the 35-year-old spent time with the national team under four different managers, including Fabio Capello, Roy Hodgson, Gareth Southgate and Thomas Tuchel.
The full-back established himself as a key part of England’s backline during one of the most successful eras for the national team in recent memory. Walker said of his decision: “Playing for England has always been the greatest honor of my career. Every time I put on the shirt it meant a lot to me and my family.”
“After much consideration, I feel now is the right time to step down and allow the next generation of players to thrive.
“I am extremely proud of this journey and would like to thank all the managers, team-mates, people behind the scenes and supporters who have been a part of this journey.”
“England fans are the most special people. The roar of the 12th man kept us fighting and I wish them all the best of luck as they now join us in the World Cup.”
Reflecting on his international career, Walker added: “Representing your country is the greatest thing you can do in football. Memories with England will stay with me forever.”
Three Lions manager Tuchel said in a tribute: “All England fans will join me in celebrating Kyle’s 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 great men who embraced the highest honor of representing his country wholeheartedly.
“A 14-year international career and five major tournaments are testament to Kyle’s dedication. He can look back on his time with the Three Lions with great pride.”
Walker’s wife Annie Kilner said in a tribute: “Kyle always took great pride in playing for England.
“It meant a lot to him and to all of our families. International football requires incredible dedication over many years and we are all extremely proud of everything he achieved in an England shirt.”
Beyond his stint with England, Walker went on to amass one of the most outstanding club careers of any modern English defender, winning numerous Premier League titles, the Champions League and a wealth of domestic silver medals.
Walker will now focus on the next chapter of his time at Burnley as the club battles to prevent relegation to the Championship.
