Daly to retire from England duties - BBC Sport

England and Aston Villa striker Rachel Daly has retired from international football.

The 32-year-old, who has 84 caps, was part of the England squad that won Euro 2022.

"I wouldn't want to play for England forever, but the time has come to hang up my boots on the international stage," Daly said.

"While today is a very difficult day for me, it is also full of reflection and immense gratitude. It has been a privilege to play for and represent England."

Daly made his England debut against Serbia in 2016 and scored the first of his 16 goals.

He started all their games at Euro 2022 as they won their first major trophy.

England coach Sarina Wiegman said: “I have never worked with such a versatile player, always with a smile on his face, bringing energy and trying to do his best for the team.

"Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we've made together. It's been a privilege to work with her."

Daly, who played as a full-back and forward for England, started last summer's World Cup final, which Spain won 1-0.

"It has been the greatest honor to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country," he said.

“I have a lot of incredible memories during my time in England, which have been pivotal moments.

- Winning the Euro and then getting to the World Cup final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person.

"I feel so lucky to have been able to share it with so many remarkable people throughout my journey."

Daly said he would continue to be "England's number one fan" but said it was time to "pass that baton on" to the next generation of players.

England captain Leah Williamson said: "There aren't enough words to do you justice as a player, but more importantly as a person. I'm so happy I got to play with you one last time."

England defender Lucy Bronze said: "You've earned every minute you've worn an England shirt."

The Football Association's women's technical director Kay Cossington said: “It's really hard to put into words Rachel's contribution to the Lionesses.

"He is a phenomenal individual who has been a huge asset to the England team on and off the pitch."

Daly has had a very successful career in England without really having a starring role.

His versatility - as a defender for most of his international career despite playing club ball as a forward - has been both a huge asset for England and something that has perhaps held him back personally.

Daly was the PFA Player of the Year and Golden Boot winner in the Women's Super League last season, but is well down the England pecking order, behind Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp at number nine.

His increased desire to play as a forward, as opposed to the full-back he has so often filled, may have led to his surprise international retirement.

In this month's Euro 2025 qualifiers, Daly was an unused substitute in a 1-1 draw with Sweden before coming on in the 86th minute against the Republic of Ireland.

He is believed to have told his England team-mates of his decision to retire after Tuesday's win after speaking to Wiegman in camp to assess the Manager's future plans.

But despite having fewer minutes of late, Daly has consistently proven himself to be a key player for England at major tournaments.

He will be missed, but there is plenty of English talent in the current squad, and Daly can now focus on club football, where he remains an important player for Villa.