Fran Kirby announces international retirement ahead of Euro 2025
Fran Kirby has announced her retirement from international football becoming the second Lioness to retire ahead of the European Championship following the previous departure of goalkeeper Mary Earps.
Kirby's retirement begins with immediate effect and she was left out of the England squad that suffered a 2-1 defeat to Spain in their final Nations League match on Tuesday evening. She was also informed that she would not be part of England's Euro 2025 squad.
The midfielder won 77 caps and scored 19 goals with England having represented her country at four major tournaments famously winning Euro 2022. As well as success at the last European Championship, she was part of the bronze-medal winning squad at the Fifa Women's World Cup 2015.
Kirby made her international debut for England in August 2014, scoring in a 4-0 win against Sweden and her last appearance came at Wembley as the Lionesses defeated Portugal 6-0 in the Nations League last Friday.
Announcing her retirement Kirby wrote: 'After being in the England team since I was 21, it's time to close that chapter of my life. I didn't ever want this day to come, but I cannot tell you how proud I am it happened. It's been the biggest honour to represent my country, one that I had only dreamt about as a young girl. I've played with incredible players, worked with some incredible managers, played in some amazing tournaments and have some irreplaceable memories.
'My journey has been full of ups and downs, setbacks and achievements. Enough has been said and written about those, but regardless of whatever was thrown at me, I want you all to know that every time I put on that England badge I gave 100%. Every single call up, I accepted my role and did whatever was needed for the team. I wanted England to win. I've always been there to help England win.
'My mum had a dream of me representing my country, and I'm so proud I was able to do that and play in front of you all. I will never, ever forget the noise when my name is read out at a stadium. I was first selected when I was playing in WSL 2, I played a part in the game-changing World Cup, winning bronze in 2015, creating some memories of a lifetime. Starting in every game and winning the Euros in 2022 was a dream come true, to be a part of change in women's football was one of the best experiences I could have ever imagined. Thank you to you all, for embracing me as a young girl from Reading who had a dream. I hope you all know, wearing that badge was the greatest honour. To every young girl that suffers setbacks, just remember you can. You can. Forever a Lioness, Fran'.
Addressing her retirement in an interview with the BBC, Kirby revealed that her plan was to retire following England's Euro 2025 campaign but missing out on making the squad forced her hand.
'It is something I have been thinking about for over a year,' she said, 'I knew this was going to be my last major tournament. The plan was to retire after the Euros but after speaking to Sarina I'm not going to make the squad.
"It was like a dagger to my heart but also a weight off my shoulders all at the same time. It was emotional for both of us but we both respected what each person was saying."
England boss, Sarina Wiegman, addressed Kirby's departure and claimed the midfielder was 'an inspiration' for what she achieved on the pitch.
Wiegman said: 'Fran has given so much to England and has been an inspiration to so many for what she has achieved on and off the pitch. I have loved working with her, she is an amazing player and a great person. I fully understand her decision to say goodbye at this point in her wonderful career, and we will always be grateful for her incredible contribution to the team.
'I am just happy that she will continue to show her top ability in club football. Fran is a unique talent and plays football in a way that excites the fans and has earned the respect of all who have played with and against her. We will miss her of course and I look forward to the chance to honour her in the right way later this year.'
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