England attacking midfielder Fran Kirby has announced her retirement from international football with immediate effect before the European Championships.
In an exclusive interview with BBC Sport, Kirby says she is leaving the international scene with her "head held high".
The Brighton player, who has 77 caps for the Lionesses, has been a key figure for England for more than a decade.
Kirby was named in Sarina Weigman's squad for the Uefa Nations League matches against Portugal and Spain but was informed she would not be selected for the Euros starting on 2 July.
In her first interview after announcing her retirement, Kirby said: "It is something I have been thinking about for over a year. I knew this was going to be my last major tournament.
"The plan was to retire after the Euros but after speaking to Sarina I'm not going to make the squad.
"It was like a dagger to my heart but also a weight off my shoulders all at the same time. It was emotional for both of us but we both respected what each person was saying."
The news comes just days after goalkeeper Mary Earps also retired from international football before England attempt to defend their Euros title
