Fran Kirby announces England retirement with immediate effect | OneFootball

England midfielder Fran Kirby has announced her retirement from international duty with immediate effect.

The 31-year-old was informed by Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman that she would not be part of the EURO 2025 squad, and has decided to step away following tonight's 2-1 Nations League loss to Spain.

Kirby did not play in the Barcelona game, with her 77th and final appearance for her country coming from the bench in the 6-0 win over Portugal on Friday at Wembley.

She is best remembered for her key role in the EURO 2022 success, starting all six games and scoring two goals, as Wiegman's side lifted the trophy with victory over Germany.

"When I woke up in the morning after telling Sarina, I didn't feel any regret. "That's when I knew I'd made the right decision" said Kirby.

"I've been on this team for a long time, it's not going to be a shock that it was coming to an end.You get to a certain age and there are some really good youngsters that are coming through" added the former Chelsea star.

Kirby will now focus on her club career with Brighton.

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