After 1,019 games and 303 goals in 21 years, former Chelsea star Frank Lampard has decided to retire from international soccer.
“Whilst I have received a number of exciting offers to continue playing at home and abroad, at 38 I feel now is the time to begin the next chapter in my life,” the striker wrote in a long essay posted to Instagram on Thursday. “I’m immensely proud of the trophies I’ve won, of representing my country over 100 times and of scoring more than 300 career goals.”
Lampard went on to thank his family, friends and others who “have always been there” for him, as well as his various teammates, coaches, managers and staff he’s worked with.
He gave shout outs to West Ham United, where he debuted in 1996, as well as Manchester City and NYCFC, where he spent his last two seasons.
“I greatly enjoyed my last playing years at these two clubs and really appreciate the support I received from City Football Group and both clubs’ fans,” he said.
