British Rachel Daly announces her retirement from international football

“I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be forever grateful to have had the opportunity to proudly wear the England badge for the past eight years.

“I'm very lucky to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel that now is the right time to pass this baton to the next generation and be England's number one supporter from the stands!”

During her time with the team, Daly's presence, personality and popularity off the field with players, staff and fans were also an important factor in the Lionesses' rise and their role in the increased popularity of the women's and girls' game during that period. hours.

England coach Sarina Wigman said: “Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we have created together. It has been an honor to work with her.

“I have never worked with a player who is so versatile, always with a smile on her face, bringing energy and trying to do her best for the team.

“Off the field, she is always ready for a joke or a nice conversation. Not only will I miss her, but all the coaching staff, the players and of course the fans will miss her.”

“It's sad that she won't be with us anymore, but we should celebrate what she has done for the team and now she has become our number one fan. I would love to see her in the stands in the future cheering us on.” And help us achieve more victories.”

Kay Cossington, FA Women's Technical Director, said: “Rachel's contribution to the Lionesses is truly difficult to put into words. She is an exceptional person and has been a huge asset to the England team, both on and off the pitch.

“She put her heart and soul into every game, and she didn't just play for the badge, she played for every little girl who loves the sport. She said it would be a lot quieter without her, but I actually think it wouldn't be the same without her. The players will miss The coaching staff is extremely talented and attractive.

“We will of course pay tribute to her wonderful service to the Lionesses in due course.”

Born in Harrogate, Daly began her career with her childhood club Leeds United and took her first steps on the international ladder with a trip to New Zealand for the WU17 FIFA World Cup in 2008.

A move to Lincoln Women in 2010 saw her burst onto the Women's Soccer League scene as a youngster, but it wasn't until after switching to college in the US that she made her way back into the England reckoning after joining the National League's Houston Dash. for American football.

She made her debut for the first team in 2016, making her debut with a goal against SerbiaWhile she had to be patient to become a regular player, her form in the NRL saw her join Phil Neville's side in the run-up to the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup in France where she got her first taste of tournament action.

Plans to publicly honor and thank Rachel for her contribution to the Lionesses' home match will be announced in due course.

She will always be given a warm welcome when she returns to Wembley and St. George's Park and we would like to wish her the best as she continues her illustrious career in the local game.