On this day in 2014, England captain Steven Gerrard announced his retirement from international football, having played 114 international matches in 14 years.

The then 34-year-old midfielder decided to end his career with his country after the disastrous 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The World Cup was over after just two matches, after Italy and Uruguay lost 2-1 in Group D.

Gerrard made his decision as he considered the demands of another Champions League clash with club Liverpool, who he helped lift the trophy in 2005 after a five-year absence from the competition.

At the time, he was the third most capped player for England, after Peter Shilton and David Beckham, but both players have since been overtaken by Wayne Rooney.

Gerrard said at the time: “This was a very difficult decision, one of the hardest I’ve had to make in my career.

“I’ve been thinking about this since I came back from Brazil and have spoken to family, friends and people close to me in the sport before I got to this point.

“To ensure I can continue to play at a high level and give my all to Liverpool Football Club, I believe this is the right decision – and bringing Champions League football back to Anfield is another important factor in my decision.”

England manager Roy Hodgson admitted he was disappointed with Gerrard’s decision but also praised his contribution to the national team.

Hodgson said: “While I am disappointed with the decision, I can completely understand Steven’s situation and have no complaints given the incredible service he has given to his country.

“He is an incredible man and a fantastic footballer who we have all had the pleasure of seeing in an England shirt so many times.”

Gerrard made his international debut in a friendly against Ukraine in May 2000 under Kevin Keegan and scored the first of his 21 goals in a 5–1 World Cup qualifier win in Germany the following September.

He represented England at six major tournaments, making his last appearance as a substitute in the 0–0 draw against Costa Rica in Belo Horizonte in June 2014.