Kyle Walker ‘at ease’ after deciding to end England career

Kyle Walker says he is now “at ease” with his decision to end his England career, with the former Tottenham and Manchester City defender hoping the move will allow him to extend his time in club football.

Walker announced his international retirement in May after a career with England that began in 2011 and lasted 14 years. He won 96 caps and represented his country at five major tournaments.

“Decisions in life you stand on what you do,” Walker said, as quoted by the BBC.

“I made that decision and it was a collaborative decision for me and my family. They have been through everything with me in the summers and internationals so it was not just me, myself and I making that decision.

“It was a difficult decision but one I’m more at ease with now. It was something I wanted to do and felt it was right. I spent a lot of years with England representing my country that I was very grateful for.”

The 36-year-old is best known for his lengthy spells with Tottenham and Manchester City. During eight years at City, Walker won six Premier League titles and the Champions League, helping establish himself as a highly decorated figure in the club’s history at the Etihad Stadium.

After leaving City, Walker had a short-term spell in Italy with AC Milan before returning to England at the start of last season. He joined Burnley and made 36 Premier League appearances for the Clarets during the campaign.

Despite his involvement, Walker could not prevent Burnley from being relegated. He is expected to remain an important figure for the club this season as they attempt to return quickly to the English top flight.

Walker believes ending his England career could help him maintain his club career for longer. He pointed to former England team-mate James Milner as an example of a player who continued to perform at a high level after stepping away from international football.

Milner retired from international football at an early stage of his career and continued playing until the end of last season, when he left Brighton and Hove Albion at the age of 40.

“I still feel good and still feel I’m playing at a good level. You look at someone like James Milner and how long he went on in his career. He retired very early [from England] and went on to achieve great things in football so hopefully I can follow in his footsteps,” Walker added.

Walker’s international career included appearances across five major tournaments, while his club achievements with Manchester City included six Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph. His focus is now on Burnley, where he is set to play a leading role on and off the pitch as the club seeks an immediate return to the top flight.