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Kelly Smith calls time on England career

Kelly Smith in her England pomp

Kelly Smith has announced her retirement from international football.

The Arsenal Ladies captain represented England 117 times during a 20-year international career. She is her country's all-time leading scorer with 46 goals.

“After a lot of consideration and many conversations, I have made the toughest decision of my career to retire from international football” she said.

“For me, it doesn’t get any better than playing for your country. I feel exceptionally proud and honoured to have played for England for 20 wonderful years. I have enjoyed every single minute of representing my country and wearing the England shirt. The memories will stay with me all my life.

“I am grateful to have played under Hope Powell, and to have had such an amazing support system from my family, friends and all my teammates.

“Being a part of women’s football over the last 20 years I have seen massive strides in the development and growth of the game and the women’s national team. I am confident the current wealth of talent that Mark Samspon has in the England squad can achieve something special at the World Cup in Canada this summer.

“Although I am stepping away from England, I remain totally committed to playing for my club, Arsenal, and continuing to develop as a coach.”

Kelly Smith