Ashley Cole retires from England duty after Roy Hodgson omits him from World Cup squad

Ashley Cole

Ashley Cole has retired from International duty

Ashley Cole is has retired from international duty after England manager Roy Hodgson named Southampton’s 18-year-old prodigy Luke Shaw ahead of the veteran Chelsea star. Everton‘s experienced Leighton Baines is also expected to be added in the squad, which means it was the final nail in the coffin for Ashley Cole’s England career.

After the omission, Ashley Cole said: “I got the call from Roy and agree the England team should be about the young players. I think it best I retire from the 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.‘Baines and Shaw are great players, proved this season, and are the future of this country.”

“It was a pleasure to get 107 caps.‘Like me or not, trust me it’s hurt me to stop playing for my country.”

Roy Hodgson was present at St. Mary’s when Southampton took on defending Champions Manchester United in the final game of 2013-14 season. Luke Shaw had an impressive game and got a standing ovation when he was subbed off. Hodgson was seen leaving the stadium when Shaw was subbed off.

In addition, Manchester United’s under- performing players like Michael Carrick, Tom Cleverley and Ashley Young maybe replaced by Ross Barkley, Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere and Raheem Sterling. Also former Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe too might be replaced by Southampton veteran Rickie Lambert and Norwich City’s goalkeeper John Ruddy could miss out on being selected for the World Cup squad with Celtic’s Fraiser Forster in the running.

— Ashley Cole (@TheRealAC3) May 11, 2014

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