Fran Kirby's international career epitomised what resilience, combined with serious talent, can accomplish but the time is right to retire, writes Emma Sanders.

In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Fran Kirby said she has retired from international football in order to "prolong" her own career.

England midfielder Fran Kirby has retired from international football with immediate effect. Kirby, now of Brighton & Hove Albion, has made her decision, she says, after being told by England manager Sarina Wiegman she would not be included in the squad for the European Championship,