SPORT NEWS: Lampard retires from international football

Frank Lampard has announced his retirement from international football. The 36-year-old, who left Chelsea for new MLS outfit New York City FC in July, captained England for their final World Cup group game against Croatia. Lampard leaves the international scene with 106 caps and 29 goals to his name since his debut in 1999, overtaking David Platt as the Three Lions' highest-scoring midfielder in March. "I have taken the decision to retire from international football," Lampard said in a statement. "It has been a very tough decision for me to make, which is way I have given it so much thought since the World Cup. I have always been exceptionally proud and honoured to represent my country and have to say looking back I have enjoyed every minute of wearing the England shirt. "Due to my club career now going in a different direction, it is of utmost importance for me to consider my family first. Also, to concentrate on how I can perform consistently to the best of my abilities over my next few fears in club football. "It is now the time to move forward and I feel very confident that with Roy Hodgson in charge, the young players they we have coming through, and the changes that are being made throughout the development of the youth system in this country, that we will have success in the future and a team that this country deserves." "I would like to thank all the managers that I have worked under, all the players that I have been fortunate to play alongside, and all the England fans for their support, not only at home but particularly on their travels with the team around the world. "I now look forward to continuing to support the team as a fan and wish them every success for the upcoming campaign towards France 2016." Roy Hodgson is set to announce his squad for the upcoming friendly clash with Norway on September 3, before the qualification stage for Euro 2016 gets underway against Switzerland five days later.