John Terry quits England National Team

The 31-year-old, capped England 78 times since his debut in 2003, issued a statement saying his position in the national team had become untenable due to the Football Association's impending case against him.

"I am today announcing my retirement from international football," the former England captain said in his statement.

"I would like to thank the England managers who have selected me for my 78 caps.

"I have had great pleasure in sharing that honour with all the players that I've played with. I would like to thank them, the fans and my family for their support and encouragement during my international career.

"Representing and captaining my country is what I dreamed of as a boy and it has been a truly great honour.

I have always given my all and it breaks my heart to make this decision."

"I am making this statement today in advance of the hearing of the FA disciplinary charge because i feel the FA, in pursuing charges against me where i have already been cleared in a court of law, have made my position with the national team untenable.