Ashley Cole quits England after World Cup sack

Chelsea veteran defender Ashley Cole has announced his retirement from international duty after he was left out of the England World Cup squad.

Cole confirmed on his Twitter account, he wrote:

“I got the call from Roy and agree England team should be about the young players. I think it best I retire from England team now.”

The 33-year-old experienced defender has made 107 appearances for England, including three World Cups. He played his last international in the 1-0 friendly win over Denmark in March.

Cole, who made his England debut in 2001, has been replaced by Southampton teenager Luke Shaw.

Hodgson told TheFA.com: “Among many difficult decisions I have had to make for my squad, not selecting Ashley was one of the hardest.”

England will face Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica in the world cup group stages, starting on June 12.