It's hurt me to stop playing for my country, says Ashley Cole

CHELSEA left-back Ashley Cole has announced that he has retired from the England team on his official twitter feed.

England boss Roy Hodgson will unveil his squad to go to the Brazil World Cup on Monday, but Cole, 33, who has made 107 caps, will not be among the 23-man squad.

Cole tweeted: “I got the call from Roy and agree England team should be about the young players.  I think it best I retire from England team now.

“We have a great manager and team and I wish them only success.  I will be supporting them like a true fan.  Thanks to everyone for everything.

“Like me or not, trust me it’s hurt me to stop playing for my country.  Proud and honoured.”

Cole added that “it was a pleasure to get 107 caps.”

Southampton’s Luke Shaw, 18, who has one cap to his name, is expected to take Cole’s place in the squad.

The Three Lions kick-off their World Cup Group D campaign against Italy on Saturday, 14 June at 23:00, before playing Uruguay (Thursday, 19 June, 20:00) and face Costa Rica in their last group game on Tuesday 24 June at 17:00).

The Stepney-born defender, made fourteen appearances on loan at Crystal Palace during season 1999-2000, but spent his entire career in the capital with Arsenal (1998-2006) and Chelsea (2006-present).

Article published: 23:00 - 11/05/2014