Ashley Cole has retired from international football after he revealed that Roy Hodgson has left him out of the England squad for the World Cup 2014.
Cole will not be making his way to Rio for the football tournament after Hodgson told him that he’ll be putting his faith in a younger team.
Cole took to Twitter to reveal Hodgson’s decision to omit him from the World Cup 2014 squad, saying: “I got the call from Roy and agree England team should be about the young players. I think it best I retire from England team now.
“We have a great manager and team and I wish them only success. I will be supporting them like a true fan. Thanks to everyone for everything.”
He added: “Like me or not, trust me it’s hurt me to stop playing for my country #proud and #honoured.”
Speaking to the BBC, Hodgson admitted that leaving Cole out of his team for the tournament was a tough decision, saying: “He’s been an incredible competitor for England. To amass over a century of caps is a truly staggering achievement and he deserves enormous credit for the desire and brilliance which has shone through over the years he has represented his country.
“There are few players who can be considered among the very best in the world, but Ashley in his prime was the best left-back without a doubt.”
Hodgson also stated that he “must respect” Cole’s decision to retire from international football altogether, and that although the defender is one of the country’s best players, the England coach must “look to the future” and utilise younger players.
Hodgson will announce his full squad for the World Cup at 14:00 BST today (May 12th).
Photo: Getty Images
