England captain Wayne Rooney retires from international football

Baku. 23 August. REPORT.AZ/ Everton player Wayne Rooney has retired from international football.

Report informs, reads the statement released by 32-year old forward.

"It was great that 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. 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. Every time I was selected as a player or captain was a real privilege and I thank everyone who helped me. But I believe now is the time to bow out".

Notably, Wayne Rooney debuted in England team on February 12, 2003. He scored 53 goals at 119 matches. Playing first match for Everton in 2002 aged 16 years, he left the club for Manchester United for £25.6 after two years. He transferred to Everton last month, after 13-year break.