Scotland stalwarts Ifeoma Dieke and Leanne Ross have both announced their retirement from international duty.
The pair were inducted into the Scottish FA Roll of Honour last month and amassed more than 250 international caps between them but will continue to play for their respective clubs.
Ifeoma Dieke began playing for Scotland in 2004, going on to collect 122 caps since making her debut against Greece.
An influential squad member, she was selected for the Great Britain team at the 2012 London Olympics.
The 36-year-old played in all three Euro 2017 matches last month, playing an instrumental part in the 1-0 win over Spain.
She said: “I have loved playing for Scotland over the last 13 years but I feel now is the right time to hang up my boots
“I would like to thank everyone who has helped me during my time with the national team, especially Vera Pauw and Anna Signeul.
“It has been an amazing and unbelievable journey that has left me with a lifetime of great memories.
“I look forward to supporting and watching the team grow, prosper and conquer the challenges ahead. I wish them success in the future and look forward to the team aiming to qualify for their first World Cup.”
Glasgow City captain Leanne Ross began her Scotland career in 2006 against Switzerland and has since gone on to play 133 times, scoring nine goals.
Leanne has been a mainstay for the national side, playing in a number of positions. Her final match was also the 1-0 victory over Spain at Euro 2017.
She said: “It has been my honour to represent Scotland over the past 11 years. It is difficult to express just how proud I have felt, every time I’ve pulled on the shirt.
“I feel privileged to have been part of such an amazing journey and sharing so many invaluable experiences, making friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.
“I would like to thank the Scottish FA, sportscotland, SSE and the Scottish Football Partnership for their support in preparation for the Euros.”
Shelley Kerr, new head coach of the Scotland Women’s National Team rates the duo highly, having played with the pair for Scotland.
She said: “Both Iffy and Leanne have had fantastic careers and been loyal servants to the national team.
“I played with Iffy in the centre of defence for the majority of my time with Scotland and we established a great partnership.
“She has been a huge part of our success in terms of the continuity and the stability she has provided in the heart of defence.
“Leanne has been a versatile player in the national team and a mainstay for many years.
“From a club perspective in Scotland, Leanne has been one of the best players in the last decade.
“She has achieved everything at her club and is a real role model for all young players in Scotland.
“To play for such a long time at the highest level is remarkable.”
Source – scottishfa.co.uk
