Former England captain Faye White has announced her retirement from football

Former England Women’s captain Faye White has announced her retirement from the game.

The 35-year-old, who won a host of domestic honours with Arsenal, skippered her country at four major tournaments, and led them all the way to the Euro 2009 Final in Finland.

After winning 90 caps, she retired from international football last year and gave birth to her first child, Lukas, in October.

White told Arsenal.com: “It's probably the right time to stop.

“My knees are getting a bit older and I noticed that when I was getting back to fitness after my pregnancy.

“I just thought it's the right time because the youngsters are coming through. I've had a good career at Arsenal - 16 years, which is one year off half my life span. That's pretty awesome and I have to be thankful for that.

“You always know it's coming and that you're going to have to make the decision at some time. When you see the girls play, there's always a part of you that wants to be out there. But it's quite hard. You could carry on forever. My mind says I can but deep down I know that my body can't handle it anymore.

“I just want to say thank you to all the players I've played with, and [former Arsenal Ladies boss] Vic [Akers], who was the manager for most of my time at Arsenal. I really owe him so much. He's done so much for me. He's been fantastic and so have the players I've played with.

“I'm fortunate that I've played with some of the best players in England. I've really enjoyed promoting the game and am thankful for the support we've had to help us win the trophies.

“I couldn't have asked for a better career really."