English national team captain Steven Gerrard has decided to retire from international matches.
The midfielder first played for the national team in 2000 as a 19-year-old in a game against the Ukraine. He would become the captain prior to the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and remained the captain until today, according to The Football Association.
Gerrard told The Football Association, the name of England’s Football Association, that he has been honored to represent his country on the pitch, but he looks forward to working with the FA going forward.
English Manager Roy Hodgson thanked Gerrard for his time on the team.
“While I’m disappointed in the decision, I can entirely understand Steven’s situation and can have no complaints given the incredible service he has given to his country.”
In his time with the national team, Gerrard played in three World Cups, three European Championships, scored 21 goals and played in the third most national team games by an Englishman, according to the BBC.
Gerrard will still play for his club team Liverpool. He has played his entire career 16-year career with them.
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