Ashley Cole quits England duty after World Cup omission



Chelsea's Ashley Cole has retired from international football after being left out of England's World Cup squad.

"I got the call from Roy and agree the England team should be about the young players.
I think it best I retire from the England team now," said Cole.

"We have a great manager and team and I wish them only success. I will be supporting them like a true fan. Thanks to everyone for everything," Cole added on Twitter. "Leighton and Shaw are great players, proved this season, and are the future, it was a pleasure to get 107 caps. Like me or not, trust me it's hurt me to stop playing for my country.

Hodgson said leaving Cole out of his squad for Brazil was "one of the hardest decisions of my career".