James Milner announces England retirement

Liverpool midfielder James Milner has retired from international duty after winning 61 England caps.

Milner was handed his England debut by Fabio Capello in August 2009 at the age of 23 and has been a regular member of the international squad since then.

The Liverpool vice-captain, who turned 30 in January, racked up three World Cup appearances for the Three Lions and featured five times at the European Championships, although he was more heavily involved in tournament qualification.

His one international goal in his 61 appearances came against Moldova in a World Cup qualifier in 2012.

Milner played for just three minutes during England's disappointing Euro 2016 campaign, appearing as a late substitute in the 1-1 draw with Russia, before being benched for the rest of the tournament.

The former Manchester City, Aston Villa, Newcastle and Leeds player had already indicated a willingness to make way for the next generation and officially called time on his international career after a meeting with new manager Sam Allardyce.

In a statement released by The FA, Milner, who is England's record cap holder at U21 level with 46, said: "I would like to thank Sam for taking the time to come and see me in person and have the conversation face-to-face, regarding my international future and role within the England set-up.

"I think the decision we have reached is all about common sense. I wish Sam, the players, staff and supporters success in the future."

Allardyce, who this week sent an introductory email to all 23 players on duty in France this summer, praised Milner's contribution to the national side and revealed that he had offered to return to the fold should circumstances ever require him to do so.

"James has had the chance to reflect on his international career in recent months and consider his next steps, particularly with a young family at home and having allowed himself little free time away from the professional game in the past 15 years.

"After we had a lengthy conversation with him earlier this week, he has decided to take a step back from international duty; a decision I fully respect.

"James can be proud of his seven-year career as a senior England player and has never let his country down when called upon. His club career, already glittering, has many years ahead and we wish him well with Liverpool this season and beyond.

"In what is the mark of a true professional, James is a proud Englishman and has acknowledged that he would be prepared to step up again if I ever needed him to play a specific role of importance within my team."