Sir Geoff Hurst claims he’d never pick England duo again

World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst has questioned the decisions of Jamie Vardy and Gary Cahill to retire from England duty.

The duo, who were both part of the England squad that reached the semi-finals of the World Cup this summer, have made themselves unavailable for Gareth Southgate’s latest squad in order to concentrate on club football.

With the England chief now set to turn his focus towards younger players, despite the recent success, the likes of Cahill and Ashley Young were unlikely to be called upon barring an emergency but Vardy would have still been a useful option from the bench.

And while they have not fully turned their back on the national side, Hurst has been critical of their decision.

He said: “While there’s plenty to be positive about our national side right now, I must admit I was disappointed to see Jamie Vardy and Gary Cahill choose to retire from international duty.

“I’m a firm believer that players should play for their country as long as they possibly can.

“My team-mates and I would have given our last breath to continue playing for England.

“I also don’t like when players say they’ll make themselves available again if there are injuries or suspensions.

“In my view, if I was England manager, then I wouldn’t pick those players ever again.”