ENGLAND Lionesses legend Ellen White has announced her retirement from football.
White, 33, is currently England Women's all-time leading goalscorer having made her professional debut in 2010.
She announced the news with an emotional statement on Twitter this afternoon.
It read: "This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life but one that I know is the right decision for me. This decision has always been one I have wanted to make on my terms.
"And this is my time to say goodbye to football and watch the next generation shine.
"It has been my greatest honour and privilege to play this game. In particular playing for England has and always will be the greatest gift.
"My dreams came true on the 31st July, winning The Euros and becoming a European Champion."
In her statement, White also thanked her former teammates as well as each manager and club that she has played for throughout her incredible career.
She then added: "This is for the next generation and potentially the next lioness. You don't have to be the best at something to make your dreams come true, just look at me.
"Hard work, dedication, passion and love for what you do are a great recipe.
"Don't ever let someone tell you 'you can't do something or achieve your dreams.' I was once told I couldn't play in the boys team and I would never play for England.
"Now I am retiring having made 113 caps with 52 goals for England and a European Champion. Go out there and be the very best version of you!
"Finally, let's use the momentum from the Euro's win to make sure that every young person in all communities has the opportunity to play and feel connected to all England football teams."
White has played for some of the biggest clubs in England throughout her career including Arsenal, Chelsea and most recently Manchester City.
She also represented Great Britain at the London 2012 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic games.
The striker became a Lionesses legend in November last year when she surpassed Kelly Smith's total of 46 international goals to become England Women's all-time leading goalscorer.
White has called time on her playing career with an impressive tally of 52 goals in 113 senior appearances for England.
Only Wayne Rooney, who netted 53 goals during his international career, has scored more for England in either men's or women's football.
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