Aston Villa star Rachel Daly announces England retirement after 'phenomenal' international career

Aston Villa striker Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international football after a stellar eight-year career with the Lionesses.

Daly came off the bench to replace Alessia Russo in England's 2-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday night, but she has now confirmed that she will be making no further appearances for Sarina Wiegman's side. Having made her debut for the Lionesses in 2016, the 32-year-old has won a total of 84 senior caps, scoring 16 goals along the way.

She started every game for England at EURO 2022 - the tournament that yielded the country's first major trophy since the men's World Cup in 1966 - and has played as both a left-back and a centre-forward under Wiegman. She also helped the Lionesses make history by reaching a first ever Women's World Cup final last summer.

READ | Villa braced for double Europa Conference League blow

READ | Douglas Luiz opens up on Villa future amid Arsenal and Barca links

Announcing her retirement in a statement on Wednesday, Daly said: "I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang up my boots up on the international stage.

"While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been a privilege. During my eight years as a lioness, I've always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.

"It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments. Winning the euros and then reaching the World Cup final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person.

"I'm so fortunate that I've been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey, I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years...

"I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England's number one fan from the stands. I am excited to keep working hard at club level to reach new highs and spend some much needed quality time with my loved ones."

Responding to the news, England boss Wiegman said: “Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we’ve made together. It has been a privilege to work with her. I have never worked with a player so versatile, always with a smile on her face, bringing energy and trying to do her best for the team.

"Off the pitch she is always up for a joke or a nice conversation. She’ll be missed not just by me but all the other staff members, players and of course the fans. It is sad that she won’t be with us anymore, but we should celebrate what she has done for the team and now she becomes our No.1 fan. I would love to see her in the stands in future cheering for us and helping us to get some more wins.”

Kay Cossington, the FA women’s technical director, added: “It is really hard to put Rachel’s contribution to the Lionesses into words. She is a phenomenal individual who has been a huge asset to the England team, on and off the pitch.

"She’s put her heart and soul into every game, playing not only for the badge but playing for every little girl who loves the sport. She’s said that the place will be quieter without her but I actually think it won’t be the same without her. Her talent and charisma will be sorely missed by players and staff. We will of course pay tribute to her fantastic service to the Lionesses at the right time.”