Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech has announced his retirement from international football with the Czech Republic.
The 34-year-old is his country’s most capped player with 121 appearances, having made his debut in 2002.
He played all three matches as his side picked up just one point at Euro 2016, finishing bottom of Group D.
“It is a definite decision,” Cech told the Czech Republic Football Association (FACR).
“The fact we did not win at the Euros had no effect on my decision, although obviously I would have preferred a triumphant farewell.”
“I like to do things 100 per cent and there will come a time where I have to ease the burden on myself.
“That time may not be now, but qualification for the World Cup takes two years and it would not have been right to announce that I do not feel I can carry on in the middle of that.
“Therefore it is better to make the decision now and close a beautiful chapter.”
He added on Twitter: “We lived some amazing moments together – wishing the team all the best for the future.”
The FACR paid tribute to Cech, thanking him for his achievements, saying: “Petr Cech has announced the end of his Czech representation. He played in 124 games, which nobody has beaten. Petr, thank you for everything!.”
He played in the 2006 World Cup as well as four consecutive Euros, with the highlight being his side’s run to the semi-finals at Euro 2004.
Born on May 20, 1982, Cech played for Czech top-flight sides Blsany and Sparta Prague before moving to Rennes in France in 2002.
He then joined Chelsea in 2004, where he won four Premier League titles (2005, 2006, 2010, 2015), the Champions League (2012), the Europa League (2013) and a host of other trophies.
After 11 years with the Blues, Cech made a £10 million ($14.4 million) move across London to join the Gunners as he only managed seven games in the 2014/2015 season, shaded by manager Jose Mourinho’s first-choice keeper Thibaut Courtois.
