Rio Ferdinand announced his retirement from international soccer, with the Manchester United defender citing his need to concentrate on his career at Old Trafford, while also allowing the younger players a chance to shine.
Ferdinand, who has made 81 appearances for England, has had a stellar season with United this season, helping them to the Premier League title while also being named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year.
"After a great deal of thought, I have decided the time is right for me to retire from international football," Ferdinand said in a statement on his club's official website.
"At the age of 34, I feel it is right for me to stand aside and let the younger players come through, which allows me to concentrate on my club career.
"The team looks in great shape and there is an influx of young, talented players coming through the ranks which bodes well for the future."
The 34-year-old courted controversy when he criticized the decision to not pick him for internationals, including Euro 2012, before pulling out of the squad for the World Cup Qualifiers a few months back, when he was eventually called by manager Roy Hodgson. Ferdinand has been struggling with injuries for a few years, though.
"I regard it as a great honor and a privilege to have represented my country at every level from under-17s upwards," Ferdinand added. "I have always been very proud to play for England.
"I would like to wish Roy and the team all the best for future tournaments.
"A big thank you to all the fans, managers, coaching staff and players that I have worked alongside -- the journey has been incredible."
Ferdinand, who scored the winner against Swansea at the weekend on Sir Alex Ferguson's farewell game at Old Trafford, is out of contract with Manchester United at the end of the season, but is expected to sign a one-year deal to keep him at the club for at least one more year.
