Robinson won't end England retirement

22 March 2012 12:46

Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson insists he has no plans to end his international retirement despite reports of a potential return to the England squad.

Robinson quit England duty in 2010 after being repeatedly overlooked by coach Fabio Capello, but there will be a new manager appointed before Euro 2012 and his fine form this season had led to speculation he might be persuaded to end his exile in time for the tournament in Ukraine and Poland.

Manchester City's Joe Hart is certain to be the next England manager's first choice goalkeeper, but back-up options are limited after West Bromwich Albion's Ben Foster joined Robinson in international retirement last year.

However, former Tottenham goalkeeper Robinson, who won the last of his 41 England caps in a Euro 2008 qualifying defeat by Russia, believes his impressive performances can be attributed to no longer playing for his country and he is unlikely to reverse his decision.

"International retirement has helped me as a person and as a player. I've been out of that for a while now and it has helped me enjoy my football," he said.

"I'm just concentrating on keeping Rovers in the Premier League. I love being part of the team and there is nothing to change at the moment.

"That is the main reason I retired from international football. I can recharge the batteries more.

"I'm 32 and feel I can benefit more from staying with my own team, working on my game and having a rest when needed rather than training every day and watching a game that I'm not involved in."

Source: AFP