"This has been a very difficult decision, one of the toughest I've had to make in my career."

Steven Gerrard is not only England's captain, but also Liverpool's. After 14 years in the international football scene, and 114 caps to date, Gerrard is hailed in the third place for his country's greatest. However, his retirement was not entirely surprising, as he is now 34, and after England's poor performance during the previous World Cup in Brazil.

"I have agonised over this since coming back from Brazil and have spoken to family, friends and people close to me in the game before coming to this point.

"Most importantly Brendan [Rodgers] has been fantastic and obviously I have to look after my body as much as possible to ensure I can give everything when I take to the field. To ensure I can keep playing to a high level and giving everything to Liverpool I believe this is the right decision, and having Champions League football back at Anfield is another big factor in my decision."

The England boss said, "He is an incredible man and a fantastic footballer who we have all been blessed to see in an England shirt so often. It is never by coincidence that people reach such a staggering figure as 114 caps. It is a mark of his wonderful talent allied to a huge drive and determination to live up to the highest standard."

Nevertheless, Wayne Rooney is a favourite to be England's next captain.

Also, Greg Dyke, the football association's chairman has said that the midfielder is an "England great". He said: "It is sad news but also gives us the opportunity to celebrate a wonderful career. Steven gave everything for England and he will be missed. He played at the highest level over such a long period. His longevity and determination will see him remembered by everyone as an England great."

With reports from: theguardian.com