England’s Top Goal Scorer Wayne Rooney Announces International Retirement

Wednesday was a somber day for England football fans as their former captain Wayne Rooney has decided to the hang his football boots for good.

The Everton striker made the announcement via his official website.

After being called back to the national squad, he said that he had gave it “much thought” and decided to “retire for good from international football.”

Dreams can come true and playing for @England has been exactly that. Thanks to everyone involved it's been amazing - https://t.co/GfiT7oVCpx
— Wayne Rooney (@WayneRooney) August 23, 2017

“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.”

The 31-year-old football star ended his 14-year international career with a total of 119 appearances. He is also England’s highest ever goal scorer to date with 53 goals.

Recently, the former Manchester United player joined Alan Shearer as only the second person to score 200 goals in the Premier League. Shearer is currently the top scorer in the Premier League history with 260 goals.

Fans, former teammates, and other international football stars took to Twitter to share their thoughts following Rooney’s announcement. Many of them expressed how proud they were of his career.

England's highest ever goalscorer calls it a day. Congratulations to @WayneRooney on a magnificent international career. A player's player.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) August 23, 2017

It's been a pleasure to have played alongside such a legend. I can only dream of following in your footsteps @WayneRooney ??⚽️❤️ pic.twitter.com/zPV85mFIBK
— Dele (@Dele_Alli) August 23, 2017

Congratulations @WayneRooney unbelievable @England career ???? Legend! pic.twitter.com/MVi9EzxrW1
— Marcus Rashford (@MarcusRashford) August 23, 2017

Well done on a record-breaking @England career, @WayneRooney! https://t.co/H07zmCIdJm
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 23, 2017

Wazza whyyyy? @WayneRooney we'll miss you dearly
— Ama-Okachi Byron (@Byron_Chidi) August 24, 2017

Rooney hopes that England will have a more successful stint in the future and he “will always be a passionate fan” and he looks forward to watch their matches in the future as a fan.