Vardy and Cahill step down from England duty

Jamie Vardy and Gary Cahill have both effectively called time on their international careers after helping England reach the World Cup semifinals.

With Gareth Southgate naming his first squad since the finals tomorrow, two of the more experienced members of the group in Russia have clarified their future. Leicester striker Vardy has decided to all-but retire from the national team after scoring seven goals in 26 appearances, while Chelsea defender Cahill is stepping back after representing England on 61 occasions.

“In terms of my international future I think it is time I take a step back,” Cahill, 32, told Chelsea TV. “Now I feel is the right moment to do that, I feel hugely proud of what I have achieved in terms of over 60 caps, I have captained my country on a few occasions which is a huge honour.

“I have been hugely honoured to play for my country and I would never shut the door, if I was ever needed in the future then obviously I’m there.”

Cahill’s sentiments echoed those of Vardy, 31, who has been an England regular since making his debut against the Republic of Ireland in June 2015.

“To be honest with you, this has been on my mind for a while,” Vardy told The Guardian of his decision.

“I’m not getting any younger and you can see, to be fair to the gaffer, he wants to make it more youthful, which obviously had its benefits during the World Cup.”

Southgate will tomorrow announce his new-look side for next month’s inaugural Uefa Nations League match against Spain and friendly against Switzerland.