Rio Ferdinand calls it quit

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has called time on his England career with 81 caps to his name.

The 34-year-old clinched a sixth Premier League title with the Red Devils this season and admitted after Sunday's final home game that he was keen to sign a new contract at Old Trafford.

Ferdinand last played for England in June 2011 and has remained in the international wilderness since Roy Hodgson took charge last year - missing out on Euro 2012 and then pulling out of the squad when eventually recalled for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers in March.

According to the Red Star, he wants to allow the young and coming ones to get their chance with the three Lions and also to focus on his club career since he's aging.

Ferdinand became the youngest defender to ever play for England when he made his debut against Cameroon at Wembley in 1997 having just turned 19.