Chelsea and England defender Ashley Cole confirmed last night that he would be retiring from international duty after holding a phone-call with manager Roy Hodgson.
The 33-year-old has made over 100 caps for his country and was battling with rivals Luke Shaw and Leighton Baines for a spot on the plane for Brazil this Summer, but after being phoned up by the manager, Cole refused to be the backup option and decided it would be best to retire from internationals.
The full-back took to his official twitter account late last night to break the news, and he admitted that the country should be looking towards the future when they make their selection, and for that reason, he decided to step down.
“I got the call from Roy and agree the England team should be about the young players. I think it best I retire from the England team now,” said Cole.
“We have a great manager and team and I wish them only success. I will be supporting them like a true fan. Thanks to everyone for everything.
“Leighton Baines and Shaw are great players, proved this season, and are the future of this country, it was a pleasure to get 107 caps.
“Like me or not, trust me it’s hurt me to stop playing for my country #proud and #honoured.”
Roy Hodgson then spoke about Cole’s decision and also his decision to leave him out of the team to start with.
“He’s been an incredible competitor for England,” added Hodgson. “To amass over a century of caps is a truly staggering achievement and he deserves enormous credit for the desire and brilliance which has shone through over the years he has represented his country.
“There are few players who can be considered among the very best in the world, but Ashley in his prime was the best left-back without question.
“In two years working with him he has shown nothing but relentless professionalism, and a great hunger to play for England. He is someone I have the utmost respect for and I wished him all the best, he in turn wished the team well this summer.
“Of course I must respect his decision to retire. He has been one of England’s finest players, but I want to look to the future.”
Everyone at sillyseason wants to congratulate Ashley Cole for his career with England.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt – @AlexsArticles