London: England’s all-time leading goalscorer Wayne Rooney has called time on his international career Wednesday and said that he would like to spend more energy for his new club Everton. The striker with 53 goals from 119 games turned down an offer from England coach Gareth Southgate to be part of the squad for next month’s World Cup qualifiers.
“Every time I was selected was a real privilege but I believe now is the time to bow out,” said the 31-year-old in a statement.
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Rooney, overlooked by Southgate for matches against Scotland and Spain in June, made his England debut in February 2003, in a 1-3 defeat by Australia at Upton Park. However, his first major tournament was the European 2004 Championships.
“It was great Gareth Southgate called me this week to tell me he wanted me back in the England squad for the upcoming matches. I really appreciated that. However, having already thought long and hard, I told Gareth that I had now decided to retire for good from international football,” Rooney said in the statement.
“It is a really tough decision and one I have discussed with my family, my manager at Everton and those closest to me. Playing for England has always been special to me. But all good things must come to an end,” he added.
The striker also made it clear that his priorities were with Everton. “Leaving Manchester United was a tough call but I know I made the right decision in coming home to Everton. Now I want to focus all my energies on helping them be successful,” he informed.
Agencies
