Former England defender Kyle Walker says he is "at ease" with his decision to retire from international football, made in March after 96 caps and appearances at five major tournaments. The 36-year-old, now with Burnley, hopes stepping away from England duty will help extend his club career, drawing a parallel with former Manchester City team-mate James Milner, who retired from England at 30 yet went on to play at the top level for another decade.

Walker, England's most-capped right-back, featured in Euro finals in 2021 and 2024 and the 2018 World Cup semi-final, but rejected suggestions he had quit too soon despite England needing makeshift cover at right-back during their third-place finish at this summer's tournament in North America. Speaking at the EFL season launch in Manchester, he said the retirement was a family decision and that he was not expecting a recall from manager Thomas Tuchel. Walker played 36 of Burnley's 38 Premier League games last season before their relegation, and the Clarets begin their Championship campaign at home to West Ham on 16 August.