Kyle Walker has called time on his England career, stepping away from international football with immediate effect.
The 35-year-old Burnley defender brings down the curtain on a remarkable journey that saw him earn 96 caps for the Three Lions across an impressive five major tournaments.
It's a decision that comes just months before this summer's World Cup in North America, where Thomas Tuchel will lead England's charge.
Walker made his international debut against Spain back in 2011 when he was just 21 years old, and his final appearance came in a friendly defeat to Senegal at the City Ground last June.
Kyle Walker made 96 caps for England, agonisingly close to joining the 100-cap club
|GETTY
The veteran full-back featured in consecutive European Championship finals, experiencing heartbreak against both Italy and Spain.
Walker spoke movingly about what wearing the England shirt meant to him throughout his career.
"Playing for England has always been the greatest honour of my career," he said. "Every time I pulled on the shirt it meant a huge amount to me and my family."
The defender explained his thinking behind the timing, adding: "After a lot of thought, this feels like the right moment to step away and allow the next generation of players to come through."
Walker leaves with nothing but fond memories of his time with the national team.
Kyle Walker had previously been named England's vice captain
| PA"I leave incredibly proud of the journey and grateful to every manager, teammate and supporter who has been part of it," he said.
"Representing your country is the biggest thing you can do in football and those memories with England will stay with me forever."
Thomas Tuchel was quick to pay tribute to the departing defender, praising his contribution to English football.
"I know all England fans will join me in congratulating Kyle on an incredible international career," the England boss said.
Despite only working together briefly, Tuchel recognised Walker's standing within the national setup.
"Although I only worked with him for a short period of time, I was always aware that he was one of England's greats who fully embraced the highest honour of representing his country," he added.
The German highlighted the longevity of Walker's service, noting: "An international career spanning 14 years and five major tournaments is testament to Kyle's dedication. He can look back on his time with the Three Lions with great pride."
Walker served under four different England managers during his career, including Fabio Capello, Roy Hodgson, Gareth Southgate and Tuchel himself.
England boss Thomas Tuchel has reacted to the news by praising Kyle Walker
| GETTYWith his England chapter now closed, Walker can turn his full attention to a pressing matter at club level.
Burnley are in a real scrap for Premier League survival, currently sitting 19th in the table under Scott Parker's management.
The Clarets find themselves nine points adrift of safety with just nine matches left to play this season.
Walker joined the Lancashire club from Manchester City last summer and still has another year remaining on his Turf Moor contract.
Kyle Walker now plays for newly-promoted Burnley | REUTERS
His CV is certainly impressive, having won six Premier League titles at the Etihad along with the Champions League, two FA Cups, four League Cups and the FIFA Club World Cup.
The experienced defender has now amassed more than 750 appearances throughout his club and international career.