Experienced England defender Kyle Walker has announced his retirement from international football with immediate effect.
The 35-year-old Burnley full-back earned 96 caps for the Three Lions, featuring in five major tournaments during his international career. Walker made his debut against Spain in November 2011 and quickly established himself as a regular in the national squad.
Walker played at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and at the European Championships in 2016, 2021, and 2024. He was instrumental in England’s back-to-back European Championship finals in 2021 and 2024, earning selection in UEFA’s Teams of the Tournament and serving as vice-captain in 2024.
His final appearance came in a friendly against Senegal at the City Ground in June 2025. Reflecting on his career, Walker described it as a “whirlwind of a journey” and said:
“I am sad to be making this decision, but I’m also very proud of what I’ve achieved with England. Today is the time that comes to an end. It’s good for me to have a little bit of closure to my career on the international stage.”
Walker scored his lone international goal against Ukraine in September 2023. He emphasized the legacy he hoped to leave behind:
“We’ve tried to change the way that people look at English football. We’ve tried to take a little bit of the pressure off that you feel playing for England… Of course, there should be some pressure playing for your country, but we should all carry that because we’re the chosen ones lucky enough to pull on that shirt and represent our country.”
Despite his contributions, Walker was not included in the most recent squad by current England manager Thomas Tuchel.
Walker also expressed pride in having represented his country, calling it a “great honour” and hoping he helped shape a positive image of the national side. Reuters
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