Wales midfielder Joe Allen has announced his retirement from international football.
During the early months of 2022-23, Allen spent time on the sidelines with a hamstring injury and was a major doubt for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The 32-year-old achieved his goal, proving his fitness sufficiently enough to feature as a substitute against Iran and start versus England.
However, the tournament was a disappointment for the Dragons, who collected just one point from three games, and there was a perception that some of their players were coming to the end of their time on the global stage.
Gareth Bale, the team's star man, confirmed that he was hanging up his boots with Wales and subsequently made the decision to retire from the sport as a whole.
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Allen, eight months younger than Bale, has now opted to follow suit, concluding his time with his country with 74 caps across a near 14-year period.
Although Allen plans to continue with domestic football, he has cited a number of injuries as part of his reasoning for ending his national team involvement.
Allen said: "Playing for Wales has been a great passion and love in my life. I have been extremely fortunate. I've shared this journey with incredible people - my family, team-mates, staff and fans have made it special and I'm hugely grateful to you all.
"Our nation's support is inspiring and it has given me immense pride to wear the shirt... so many unforgettable experiences.
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"Unfortunately, time and injuries take their toll and so it's time for me to make way for our next generation. The future of Welsh football is bright."
Allen's most influential time in a Wales shirt came at Euro 2016 as he helped Chris Coleman's team reach the semi-finals of the tournament, losing to eventual winners Portugal.
His performances were recognised by earning a place in the Team of the Tournament, where he was joined by teammate Aaron Ramsey.
Allen will now hope to extend his club career, building on making 12 starts and six substitute outings for Swansea this season.
Darren Plant
