Gary Cahill who made his debut for the Three Lions in 2010 and managed to score 5 goals in his 61 appearances has considered it expedient to stepped aside from the national team but can only be called back in case of injury or urgency.

The 32 year old Chelsea defender made just one appearance at the World Cup, during England's 1-0 group stage defeat by Belgium.

"I can see it is now going to a younger generation and I think it is the perfect time for me to take a step back," Cahill told Chelsea TV.

"I've been hugely honoured to play for my country and I would never shut the door.

"I've said that if there are injuries in the future and I'm needed to come and play then, of course, I'm available." He said.