England star announces he’s QUITTING international football, three months before the World Cup starts, after losing his place under Thomas Tuchel

Kyle Walker has announced his retirement from international football after losing his place from Thomas Tuchel‘s England squad ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

The 35-year-old right back earned 96 caps for England after making his debut in November 2011, and played under four managers in Fabio Capello, Roy Hodgson, Gareth Southgate, and Tuchel.

Walker last played for England in their World Cup qualifier against Albania in March 2025, a 2-0 victory. He was dropped for Reece James for the following match against Latvia and hasn’t returned to the England camp since.

Walker, who joined Burnley last summer, said: ‘Playing for England has always been the greatest honour of my career. Every time I pulled on the shirt it meant a huge amount to me and my family.

‘After a lot of thought, this feels like the right moment to step away and allow the next generation of players to come through.

‘I leave incredibly proud of the journey and grateful to every manager, teammate and supporter who has been part of it.

‘Representing your country is the biggest thing you can do in football and those memories with England will stay with me forever.’

England boss Tuchel said: ‘I know all England fans will join me in congratulating Kyle on an incredible international career. 

‘Although I only worked with him for a short period of time, I was always aware that he was one of England’s greats who fully embraced the highest honour of representing his country.

‘An international career spanning 14 years and five major tournaments is testament to Kyle’s dedication. He can look back on his time with the Three Lions with great pride.’

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