Scholes quits England

Paul Scholes today stunned the football world by announcing that he has quit international football.

The 29-year-old England midfielder, who won his 66th and final cap in the Euro 2004 quarter-final against Portugal, said he felt “the time was right” to call it a day.

The news will come as massive shock to under-fire England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson who felt Scholes was one of his most important players.

“This is a decision I have not taken lightly,” said Scholes. “I have been considering retiring from international football for a while now.”

Scholes came under-fire for his performances in Portugal, with some pundits believing his presence in the team restricted Eriksson as the Swede could not select Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard in their favoured positions.

The Oldham-born player himself admitted his recent international displays did not warrant selection at times, but even so, his loss will leave a massive hole in England’s World Cup qualifying plans.

“I started my international career in 1997 and have enjoyed seven years of great football, playing in the best competitions, with some of the best players under the best managers.

“Euro 2004 was fantastic but afterwards I felt the time was right for myself and my family to make it my last England appearance.

“I would like to thank everyone at England for the wonderful years I had playing for the team and all the experience I gained. I wish them all the best and good luck for the future.”