Why Kieran Trippier has retired from international football

Kieran Trippier has announced his retirement from international football, concluding a distinguished career with the England national team.

The Newcastle right-back has decided to end his England tenure after playing a pivotal role in the team’s journey to the Euro 2024 final earlier this summer.

In a statement on Instagram, he wrote: “I never thought as a young lad from Bury that I would play for my country let alone achieve 54 caps.

“It’s been one of the biggest honours of my life to represent my country at 4 major tournaments

“I want to say a big thank you to Gareth and all the staff that have worked with the England squad for the trust they have placed in me throughout the years.

“Thank you to all my team mates – we have had some very special moments reaching 2 Euro finals, and a World Cup semi final and I am sure in the future this group of players will win a major tournament.

“I want to wish Lee, the coaching staff and the team all the best for the future .

“And finally a big thank you to all the England fans for your incredible support travelling all over the world to support us and keeping us going in the difficult moments.”

The 33-year-old made 54 appearances for England, playing a crucial role during Gareth Southgate’s successful tenure as head coach.

Trippier is particularly remembered for his stunning free-kick in the 2018 World Cup semi-final against Croatia, which put England ahead.

Southgate referred to Trippier as his ‘warrior’ throughout his time in charge.

However, Trippier has now decided to retire from international football, just ahead of interim boss Lee Carsley naming his squad later this afternoon.

Trippier’s retirement presents Carsley with a significant challenge at left-back, especially with first-choice Luke Shaw currently injured.

Additionally, Ben Chilwell has yet to feature this season, having been left out of Chelsea’s first-team squad by Enzo Maresca.

The left-back position was a concern for Southgate throughout Euro 2024 after Shaw’s injury kept him out until the quarter-finals.

Trippier stepped in as a makeshift left-back, starting each of England’s first six games before Shaw returned for the final.

Read more: Arsenal explore move for Bayern Munich star Kingsley Coman

Trent Alexander-Arnold previews Manchester United vs Liverpool clash

Mohamed Salah provides latest update on Liverpool contract situation