Rachel Daly's childhood club "proud" of Lioness as she retires from international duty
The 32 year old started playing football at Killinghall Nomads in Harrogate
Last updated 10th Apr 2024
Rachel Daly's childhood team say they are incredibly proud of the Lioness as she announces her retirement from international football.
The 32 year old started playing at Killinghall Nomads in her home town of Harrogate.
Mary Begs Reid is from the club and has been giving her reaction: "I was really shocked and a bit sad. I think she has maybe a few more years left in her. But I really admire how she is going out on top really. She's not retiring she is still obviously going to play football but just retiring from international."
"She's really sort of given so many young girls, the dare to dream and I honestly believe she won't be our last Lioness. Her legacy will live on forever at Killinghall Nomads."
"I've said to her now that you've got more free time, you can come back to Nomads Daly Brew, because we named the café after her. I've said coffee and cake is on us if she wants to come and see us. But she is still really involved with the club so I don't doubt that we will still see her and hopefully now more often."
A home Euros followed in 2022 and Daly played a key role at left-back for the Lionesses, appearing in every game on their way to being crowned champions.
The versatile Daly was named as a forward in the squad for England's World Cup campaign last year and again played every game, including the final where they were beaten by Spain.
Daly's final England appearance came as a substitute in Tuesday night's Euro 2025 qualifying victory over the Republic of Ireland.
"It's been a privilege to work with her"
Head coach Sarina Wiegman said on the England website: "Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we've made together. It has been a privilege to work with her.
"I have never worked with a player so versatile, always with a smile on her face, bringing energy and trying to do her best for the team.
"Off the pitch she is always up for a joke or a nice conversation. She'll be missed not just by me, but all the other staff members, players and of course the fans.
"It is sad that she won't be with us anymore, but we should celebrate what she has done for the team and now she becomes our number one fan. I would love to see her in the stands in future cheering for us and helping us to get some more wins."
Daley's England team-mates paid tribute to her on social media, with Beth Mead writing: "So proud of you, no words to describe how gutted I am but what an international career it's been.
"So happy to have been a part of it. Love you Rachy."
Defender Millie Bright posted: "I don't have many words right now. I've shed a lot of tears knowing this was coming.
"I am the proudest best friend of everything you've achieved in your international career. You've given your heart and soul to your country over and over again. I love you."