John Terry retires from international football

Chelsea and England defender John Terry has announced his retirement from international football.

The 31-year-old former captain has made 78 appearances for his country following his debut in 2003.

Terry faces an independent Football Association hearing this week in an attempt to clear his name following allegations that he used "abusive and/or insulting words" that "included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race of Anton Ferdinand" during a game against Queens Park Rangers in October. Terry denies the charge.

The centre-back has already been found not guilty of racially abusing Ferdinand by Westminster Magistrates Court during a week-long trial back in June.

"I'm today announcing my retirement from international football," said a statement released by Terry.

"Representing and captaining my country is what I dreamed of as a boy and it has been a truly great honour.

"I have always given my all & it breaks my heart to make this decision. I wish Roy (Hodgson, manager) and the team every success for the future.

"I feel the FA, in pursuing charges against me where I have already been cleared in court of law, have made my position untenable."

Terry was stripped of the captaincy twice during his nine-year international career due to allegations over his private life.