Ellen White: Manchester City and England striker announces retirement

England head coach Sarina Wiegman paid tribute to White, calling her a “world-class” operator.

“Ellen has given so much for England and we are all so proud of her,” she added.

“I have only had the pleasure of working with her for this past year, but her professionalism, work rate and finishing ability is world class.

“This summer she did an amazing job for the team, she is the perfect team player and helped the younger players to find their way in international football.

“I already knew she was a great player but I found an even better person.

“We will miss her, but I fully understand her decision to take a new direction.”

Arsenal forward Beth Mead, who won the golden boot playing alongside White for England at Euro 2022, said the striker was her “hero”.

“Words can’t describe how proud & lucky I am to have called you a team-mate but also a friend. The biggest professional & goalscorer. The game didn’t deserve you but you’ll be missed greatly. ellsbells89 my hero,” she posted on Twitter.

Fellow Euro 2022 winner Rachel Daly was also quick to praise White’s contribution to the game, tweeting: “The absolute best of the best. Thank you, Ellen.

“You truly are (one) of a kind. I’m so excited for your future and so proud of everything you’ve achieved.”

Gary Lineker also tweeted: “A wonderful career and a fabulous goalscorer. Wish ellsbells89 all the very best with what comes next.”

Spurs and England captain Harry Kane posted: “Congratulations on an amazing career ellsbells89 and what a way to finish! A real inspiration for the next generation of Lionesses.”

Brighton women’s manager Hope Powell, who gave White her England debut in 2010, said: “Ellen has had such a wonderful career and I’m proud of the small part I played when I gave Ellen her first England cap back in 2010 when she scored in our win over Austria.

“I have worked with few players as selfless and dedicated as Ellen. Those qualities and many others helped her give so much to the game both at international and domestic level and maintain such high standards.”