KELLY SMITH is to retire from international football.
The 36-year-old is the Lionesses’ top goalscorer, having netted 46 goals in
her twenty year international career.
Since her debut in 1995, Kelly has been capped for England 117 times, and
represented Great Britain in the 2012 London Olympics.
Speaking on social media site Kicca, she explained that a series of injuries
had led to her stepping back from international duties.
However, she will continue to play for Arsenal, where she has also taken up a
part-time coaching role.
She said: “I’ve been deliberating about this decision for months.
“It was doing my head in and I’ve felt in no-man’s land.
“I’ve just felt so tired as it’s been an emotional roller coaster.”
In November she was recalled to the England squad for a friendly against
Germany, but was injured on the first day of training — which she said also
influenced her decision.
She added: “It’s sad my international career has come to an end but the time
is right. I’m at peace with my decision.
“My career is now heading in a different direction, although I’ll still play
for Arsenal while helping [Arsenal Ladies coach] Pedro Martinez Losa as his
assistant.
“My mum and dad have known for a while as they’ve seen me come home and not be
too happy at being injured.
“I called [England coach] Mark Sampson last week and told him my decision.
“It’s time for a younger group of players now and he’s taking the team in a
different direction.
“People have asked why I haven’t waited until after the World Cup but I’ve
achieved all I wanted in the international game.
“I don’t feel I needed to be at the World Cup to prove myself and put my body
through another tournament.
“I’m just so proud to have represented my country so many times.”