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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Ian Mitchelmore

Wales legend Joe Allen announces he is retiring from international football

Joe Allen has retired from international football.

The midfielder has been a key figure for Wales over a number of years and amassed 74 caps for his country.

It comes as a major blow to boss Rob Page who also saw talisman Gareth Bale retire from all forms of football last month.

Allen starred at Euro 2016, Wales' first appearance at a major tournament since the 1958 World Cup, and was named in the Team of the Tournament as Chris Coleman's side reached the semi-finals in France.

READ MORE: Transfer mess bites Swansea City hard as concerns emerge for Sheffield United clash

He also featured at the delayed Euro 2020 finals but missed his side's first match of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to a hamstring injury.

Allen came on as a second-half substitute in the 2-0 loss to Iran at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium and then started Wales' final group stage fixture against England.

However, ahead of Wales' Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, the Football Association of Wales have confirmed that Allen has retired from international football.

In a statement issued via the FAW, Allen said: “Playing for Wales has been a great passion and love in my life, I have been extremely fortunate.

"I have shared this journey with incredible people…my family, teammates, 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.

"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.

"All the best, Joe.”

Allen missed Swansea's 4-3 defeat to Birmingham City last weekend through injury and is continuing to be assessed ahead of the Swans' clash with Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Saturday.

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