England and Liverpool midfielder James Milner retires from international football

England and Liverpool midfielder James Milner has retired from international football after making 61 appearances for his country.

The 30-year-old made his Three Lions debut in 2009, coming on as substitute in a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, and was a member of the squad for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups, as well as the 2012 and 2016 European Championships, although he played just three minutes in the latter as Roy Hodgson’s men were dumped out by Iceland in the last 16.

The Reds star has informed new England boss Sam Allardyce that he doesn’t wish to be picked for future squads.

The former Manchester City man said: “The decision we’ve reached is about common sense. I wish Sam [Allardyce], the players, staff and supporters success in the future.”

Milner scored his one and only England goal in the 5-1 win against Moldova during the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, and he also holds the record for the most appearances for the Under-21 team, after picking up 46 caps.