England stunned by second retirement before Euros after Mary Earps disappointment

Fran Kirby, 31, retires on the eve of the Lionesses’ upcoming European Championship campaign – which begins in July – and finishes her career with 77 caps and 19 goals

England midfielder Fran Kirby has announced her retirement from international football. It comes just a week after goalkeeper Mary Earps rocked England by hanging up her gloves from international football in a surprise announcement.

Kirby, 31, retires on the eve of the Lionesses’ upcoming European Championship campaign – which begins in July – and finishes her career with 77 caps and 19 goals. Kirby made her senior debut in August 2014 against Sweden and went on to represent England at four major tournaments, as well as featuring for Team GB at the Tokyo Olympics.

She claimed bronze at the 2015 World Cup and started in all of England’s games at Euro 2022, scoring two goals along the way as the Lionesses lifted their first major trophy on home soil with victory over Germany in the final at Wembley.

Her last outing for England came from the bench during their 6-0 win over Portugal on Friday and she announced her decision following the team’s 2-1 defeat by Spain on Tuesday.

“After being in the England team since I was 21, it’s time to close that chapter of my life,” Kirby wrote on social media. “I didn’t ever want this day to come, but I cannot tell you how proud I am it happened. It’s been the biggest honour to represent my country, one that I had only dreamt about as a young girl.

READ MORE: Lionesses star Lauren Hemp grateful to be back in time for Euros after long injury journeyREAD MORE: Sarina Wiegman admits she’s ‘really disappointed’ after Mary Earps’ Lionesses decision

“I’ve played with incredible players, worked with some incredible managers, played in some amazing tournaments and have some irreplaceable memories.

“My journey has been full of ups and downs, setbacks and achievements. Enough has been said and written about those, but regardless of whatever was thrown at me, I want you all to know that every time I put on that England badge I gave 100 per cent.

“Every single call-up, I accepted my role and did whatever was needed for the team. I wanted England to win. I’ve always been there to help England win.

“My mum had a dream of me representing my country and I’m so proud I was able to do that and play in front of you all. I will never, ever forget the noise when my name is read out at a stadium.

“I was first selected when I was playing in WSL 2, I played a part in the game-changing World Cup, winning bronze in 2015, creating some memories of a lifetime.

“Starting in every game and winning the Euros in 2022 was a dream come true, to be a part of change in women’s football was one of the best experiences I could have ever imagined.

“Thank you to you all, for embracing me as a young girl from Reading who had a dream. I hope you all know, wearing that badge was the greatest honour. To every young girl that suffers setbacks, just remember you can. You can.”

England confirmed that tributes will be paid to Kirby’s international career at a Lionesses match after the summer. Boss Sarina Wiegman added: “Fran has given so much to England and has been an inspiration to many for what she has achieved on and off the pitch. I have loved working with her, she is an amazing player and a great person.

“I fully understand her decision to say goodbye at this point in her wonderful career, and we will always be grateful for her incredible contribution to the team.”

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