Wayne Rooney retires from international football

Footballer Wayne Rooney has retired from international football after turning down the chance to be part of the England squad for next month’s World Cup qualifiers.

The Everton striker rejected the opportunity to be involved in next week’s football game against Malta.

The 31-year-old told national coach Gareth Southgate that he decided to retire for good from international.

"It is a really tough decision and one I have discussed with my family, my manager at Everton and those closest to me," said Rooney.

The football player said that he now wants to focus on helping Everton be successful.

"One of my very few regrets is not to have been part of a successful England tournament side," he continued. "Hopefully the exciting players Gareth is bringing through can take that ambition further and I hope everyone will get behind the team."