Fran Kirby announces international retirement

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Albion striker Fran Kirby has announced her international retirement with immediate effect.

2025-06-03T20:00+01:00

Fran Kirby has announced her international retirement after winning 77 England caps and scoring 19 goals.

The Lioness leaves her decorated international career with 77 caps and 19 goals, having represented England at four major tournaments across ten years.

Kirby played a key role in the Sarina Weigman squad that were crowned European Champions at Wembley in 2022.

She was also part of the bronze-medal winning squad at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the teams that finished fourth at both UEFA EURO 2017 and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019. Kirby also represented Team GB at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.

The attacking midfielder made her debut for England in 2014, scoring in a 4-0 win against Sweden.

Taking a moment to reflect on her career on the international stage she said, “After being in the England team since I was 21, it’s time to close that chapter of my life. I didn’t ever want this day to come, but I cannot tell you how proud I am it happened.

“It’s been the biggest honour to represent my country, one that I had only dreamt about as a young girl. I’ve played with incredible players, worked with some incredible managers, played in some amazing tournaments and have some irreplaceable memories.

“My journey has been full of ups and downs, setbacks, and achievements. Enough has been said and written about those, but regardless of whatever was thrown at me, I want you all to know that every time I put on that England badge, I gave 100%. Every single call up, I accepted my role and did whatever was needed for the team. I wanted England to win. I’ve always been there to help England win.

“My mum had a dream of me representing my country, and I’m so proud I was able to do that and play in front of you all. I will never, ever forget the noise when my name is read out at a stadium. I was first selected when I was playing in WSL 2, I played a part in the game-changing World Cup, winning bronze in 2015, creating some memories of a lifetime.

“Starting in every game and winning the EUROs in 2022 was a dream come true, to be a part of change in women’s football was one of the best experiences I could have ever imagined. Thank you to you all, for embracing me as a young girl from Reading who had a dream.

“I hope you all know, wearing that badge was the greatest honour. To every young girl that suffers setbacks, just remember you can. You can. Forever a Lioness, Fran.”