Wales Football Star Announces Retirement

Joe Allen, a Wales midfielder, has left international football at the age of 32. Allen is regarded as one of the nation's greatest midfield players and won 74 caps, scoring twice. The Swansea City player helped Wales earn berths in three major competitions, with the World Cup in Qatar as his final international appearance. After Gareth Bale left Wales last month, Wales lost another star player with Allen's retirement.

In a statement released by the Football Association of Wales, Allen stated, "Playing for Wales has been a great passion and love in my life." I've had a lot of good fortune. I'm incredibly grateful to my family, teammates, staff, and fans for making this journey memorable. I've shared it with amazing people. The support from our nation is motivating, and wearing the shirt has made me feel incredibly proud. There were so many memorable experiences.

Sadly, time and injuries wear down, so it's time for me to step aside to make room for our next generation. Welsh football has a bright future." Allen played a significant role for Wales during the most successful period in the history of the men's national team, despite not having the same level of influence as the hero Bale. He earned his first cap in 2009, helped his nation qualify for Euro 2016, which ended their 58-year absence from a major championship, and was named to the tournament's team of the tournament during Chris Coleman's extraordinary run to the semifinals.
Additionally, the ex-Stoke City and Liverpool player was crucial to Wales' success in qualifying for Euro 2020, where they advanced to the second round. After that, he helped Wales reach the World Cup for the first time since 1958, but a hamstring injury kept him out of the tournament during the buildup.