England midfielder Frank Lampard – who left Chelsea to sign with New York City FC earlier this summer – has retired from international soccer, citing his focus on his new MLS club.
“I have taken the decision to retire from international football. It has been a very tough decision for me to make which is why I have given it so much thought since the World Cup,’’ Lampard said in a statement. “I have always been exceptionally proud and honored to represent my country and have to say looking back I have enjoyed every minute of wearing the England shirt.
“Due to my club career now going in a different direction it is of utmost importance for me to consider my family first. Also, to concentrate on how I can perform consistently to the best of my abilities over my next few years in club football.’’
The 36-year-old Lampard was Chelsea’s all-time leading scorer, but left the London club to ink a Designated Player deal with New York City FC. With the MLS expansion club not starting play in the league until next year, Lampard is on loan to Premier League champions Manchester City.
After getting his first cap at 21, Lampard went on to become the make the sixth-most appearances in England history, tied with Bobby Charlton. His 29 international goals tie him for ninth-most in England history. In his last appearance, at this summer’s World Cup, he captained England in a tie against Costa Rica.
“It is now the time to move forward and I feel very confident that with Roy Hodgson in charge, the young players that we have coming through, and the changes that are being made throughout the development of the youth system in this country, that we will have success in the future and a team that this country deserves,’’ Lampard said.