Rio Ferdinand leaves the English selection. According to the English Football Association that has announced in a statement Wednesday, the Manchester United defender has decided to retire from the international scene.

The native of Saint Lucia has informed  England coach Roy Hodgson. “After much thought, I decided that it was time for me to take my international retirement. At 34 years, it’s time to make way for the young and concentrate on my club career. “

With 81 caps and 3 goals, the Red Devil had made his international debut in 1997 against Cameroon. The Londoner of origin was captain of England 7 times, was the youngest defender to evolve under English colors. His last game with the Three Lions went back to June 2, 2011 against Switzerland at Wembley.