Frank Lampard has retired from international football, after a career spanning 109 caps and 29 goals for England.
Lampard’s retirement comes after England’s unsuccessful World Cup campaign in Rio, Brazil, with Lampard playing his final game with the squad in their 0-0 draw against Costa Rica in June.
Speaking of his decision, Lampard told the BBC: “It has been a very tough decision for me to make. That is why I have given it so much thought since the World Cup.
“I have always been exceptionally proud and honoured to represent my country and have to say looking back I have enjoyed every minute of wearing the England shirt.”
Lampard made his debut for England in 1999 against Belgium, but didn’t become a regular fixture in the squad until 2004 when he took the place of an injured Nicky Butt, scoring three goals against Portugal in the European Championship. However, he then failed to score in three consecutive World Cups, before being sidelined with an injury during Euro 2012. He captained England during his last appearance with the team in Rio, under the management of Roy Hodgson.
Lampard is now on loan to former club Chelsea’s Premier League rivals Manchester City, after being transferred to New York City FC before the start of the MLS in March.
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