Vardy calls time on his England run
JAMIE VARDY has quit international football after starting only one match at the World Cup.
And Gary Cahill has also retired from England duty before Gareth Southgate names his first postRussia squad tomorrow.
Vardy (left), Cahill and the FA stressed the decisions were made
after open and honest discussions since the World Cup with Southgate.
Vardy and Cahill said they would play again in any injury emergency.
But Leicester striker Vardy, 31, admitted he had been frustrated at his lack of England game time. He started only the group game against Belgium.
“I thought I could have helped more if I’d had more minutes,” he said.
“You know that you can hurt opponents in certain ways. But it wasn’t to be. And you have to respect the manager’s decisions.
“And if it’s not happening, then for me now, at this age, it’s better to be at home, spending that time with my family and training with my club.
“To be fair to the gaffer, he wants to make it more youthful, which had its benefits in the World Cup.
“Gareth said that he felt I still had a lot to offer and we’ve not shut the door completely. If everyone was injured, then obviously I wouldn’t say no.”
Cahill, who won 61 caps, will turn 33 in December.
“It’s time that I take a step back now,” said the Chelsea defender.
“But if I’m ever needed, I’m there.”