Rooney rejects England recall and retires from international football

Wayne Rooney has announced his retirement from international football via his official website.

The Everton forward revealed that Gareth Southgate had called him to say that he would be involved in the upcoming internationals but that his decision had already been made.

The 31-year-old had fallen out of favour under the former Three Lions defender, though with goals in his opening two league matches back at Everton had seemingly done enough to change Southgate’s mind.

The former Manchester United captain’s opener against City on Monday was his 200th in the Premier League, while he retires from the international game as England’s all time record scorer, with 53.

The statement on Rooney’s website reads: “It was great Gareth Southgate called me this week to tell me he wanted me back in the England squad for the upcoming matches. I really appreciated that.

“However, having already thought long and hard, I told Gareth that I had now decided to retire for good from international football.

“It is a really tough decision and one I have discussed with my family, my manager at Everton and those closest to me.

“Playing for England has always been special to me. Every time I was selected as a player or captain was a real privilege and I thank everyone who helped me. But I believe now is the time to bow out.”