Summary
Overview
Kyle Walker announces his retirement from international football at 96 caps, just four short of the historic 100-cap milestone. In an emotional conversation, he discusses his England career spanning 14 years, the near-misses at major tournaments, regrets about penalty decisions, and why he's choosing to step away now despite conversations with new manager Thomas Tuchel.
The Retirement Decision and the 100 Cap Dream
Walker reveals he's retiring from international football at 96 caps, acknowledging that reaching 100 caps to become only the second Black player after Ashley Cole to achieve this milestone now seems unlikely. He explains that conversations with the FA made it clear this wouldn't happen, leading him to close this chapter on his own terms. Despite the announcement, he admits if called upon due to injuries, he couldn't refuse his country.
- Walker retiring at 96 caps, four short of the historic 100-cap milestone
- Had conversations with John McDermott and Gareth Southgate about his future
- Wanted to retire after Euro 2020 final loss but was convinced to continue
- Now 35 years old and feels he's earned the right to call it a day
- Admits if called up for the tournament due to injuries, he couldn't turn it down
" I think I've made it well known to everyone to be the second black player to reach 100 caps after Ashley Cole would have been a great honour. But having the conversations that I've had, it's probably not going to be. "
" If the phone call came, can I turn it down? No. So you're not retired? No, but I am officially retiring because if the phone call came, I would have to do what's right and represent my country. "
Competition for the Right-Back Position
Walker discusses the depth of talent at right-back for England, naming Reece James as the complete right-back while acknowledging Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jed Spence, and Tino Livramento. He reflects on how difficult it is to break into the England team when not playing for a top-six club, using his Burnley move as an example of trying to maintain his England place while playing regular Premier League football.
- Reece James described as the complete right-back and probable successor
- Multiple quality options including Trent, Jed, Tino, and even Konsa who played there
- Very difficult to get into England team when not at a top-six club
- Moved to Burnley specifically to play Premier League football and reach 100 caps
" I think it'd be unfair for me to say Rhys James completely because Trent has been to a couple of tournaments now and has been pushing me all the way "
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