LIONESSES star Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international football.

The Harrogate-born 32-year-old won 84 senior caps for England and scored 16 goals for the national team.

Daly, who first taste of football came with grassroots side Killinghall Nomads, was part of the Lionesses’ European Championship-winning side in 2022, where she started every game in the tournament.

“I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage,” said Daly, who plays her club football with Aston Villa, in an Instagram post. “While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.

“During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.

“It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my team-mates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.

“Winning the Euors and then reaching the World Cup final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.

“I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.

“I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!”

Daly's final outing as an England player came in last night's Euros qualifying win in the Republic of Ireland, when she came on as an 86th-minute substitute for Alessia Russo.

"Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we’ve made together," said Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman. "It has been a privilege to work with her.

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

“Off the pitch she is always up for a joke or a nice conversation. She’ll be missed not just by me but all the other staff members, players and of course the fans.

“It is sad that she won’t be with us anymore, but we should celebrate what she has done for the team and now she becomes our number one fan. I would love to see her in the stands in future cheering for us and helping us to get some more wins.”