Fran Kirby has retired from international football with immediate effect.The 31-year-old announced the decision to her Lionesses teammates and staff following England’s 2-1 defeat in the Women’s Nations League to Spain on Tuesday.Kirby won’t be involved at the 2025 Women’s EurosGetty Images - GettyShe was informed that she would not be part of Sarina Wiegman’s squad at the upcoming Women’s Euro 2025, which begins on July 2.In an emotional social media post, Kirby reflected on her Lionesses journey and said wearing the England kit ‘was the greatest honour’.“After being in the England team since I was 21, it’s time to close that chapter of my life,” Kirby said.“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 per cent. “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.The 31-year-old had spent over ten years as a LionessGetty“Starting in every game and winning the Euro 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.”Lionesses coach Wiegman hailed Kirby’s impact on and off the pitch and described the Brighton star as ‘an inspiration to many’.“I have loved working with her, she is an amazing player and a great person,” Wiegman said. “I fully understand her decision to say goodbye at this point in her wonderful career, and we will always be grateful for her incredible contribution to the team.“I am just happy that she will continue to show her top ability in club football. Fran is a unique talent and plays football in a way that excites the fans and has earned the respect of all who have played with and against her. “We will miss her of course and I look forward to the chance to honour her in the right way later this year.”Kirby’s final international appearance came last Friday as the Lionesses ran out 6-0 victors over Portugal at Wembley in a Women’s Nations League clash.The win against Portugal came over a decade after she made her Lionesses debut in August 2014 against Sweden.Kirby’s immediate retirement from international football arrived hot on the heels of Mary Earps ending her England career.Earps’ decision caught many off-guard given she was twice named the Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper and won the golden glove at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.The 32-year-old ultimately decided it was the ‘right time to step aside and give the younger generation an opportunity to thrive’.Despite Earps’ reasoning, Wiegman was ‘disappointed’ to have lost a key dressing room presence ahead of the Women’s Euros.Fran Kirby's Lionesses career in numbers77 caps19 goalsWomen’s Euro 2022 championBronze medal at 2015 FIFA Women’s World CupFourth place at Women’s Euro 2017Fourth place at 2019 FIFA Women’s World CupPlayed for Team GB at 2020 Tokyo OlympicsMade her debut in August 2014 as England beat Sweden 4-0