• England

Lampard retires from international football

Frank Lampard was named captain for England's final group stage match at the World Cup © PA Photos

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Frank Lampard has announced his retirement from international football.

The midfielder, who this summer joined Manchester City on loan from MLS side New York City, was part of England's World Cup squad in Brazil.

Frank Lampard captained his country for the first time against Denmark in a February 2011 friendly © Getty Images

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He was named captain in his final appearance for his country, a goalless draw with Costa Rica as Roy Hodgson's team exited the tournament at the group stage.

In a statement, Lampard, 36, said he would look back on his international career with pride after scoring 29 goals in 106 appearances for his country.

"It has been a tough decision for me to take which is why I have given it so much thought since the World Cup," Lampard said. "I have always exceptionally proud and honoured to represent my country and have to say looking back I have enjoyed every minute of of wearing an England shirt.

"Due to my club career now going in a different direction it is of utmost importance to me to consider my family first. Also, to concentrate on how I can perform consistently to the best of my abilities over my next few years in club football."

Lampard left Chelsea this summer after 13 years at Stamford Bridge, moving to New York City. But with the club not joining the MLS until next year, Lampard returned to the Premier League for a six-month loan with champions Manchester City.

Returning to play in the Premier League led to reports Lampard was keen to remain in Hodgson's thoughts for the 2016 European Championships qualifying campaign, but the midfielder now joins former England captain Steven Gerrard in calling time on his international career.

Frank Lampard was famously denied what would have been an equaliser despite his shot clearly crossing the line for England against Germany at the 2010 World Cup © Getty Images

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"It is now the time to move forward," Lampard added. "I feel very confident that with Roy Hodgson in charge, the young players that we have coming through, and the changes that are being made throughout the development of the youth system in this country, that we will have success in the future and a team that this country deserves.

"I would like to thank all the managers that I have worked under, all the players that I have been fortunate enough to play alongside, and all the England fans for their support, not only at home but particularly on their travels with the team around the world.

"I now look forward to continuing to support the team as a fan and wish them every success for the upcoming campaign towards France 2016."

Lampard made his England debut in 1999 at the age of 21, but it was not until Euro 2004 that he played in a major championships. Since then he has appeared at every major tournament England have qualified for, including three World Cups, apart from Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine when injury ruled him out shortly before the start of the competition.

He is the joint sixth most-capped player in England history, level with Bobby Charlton, while his 29 international goals puts him joint ninth on the country's list of top goalscorers.

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