Ashley Cole has called it a day on his international career after Roy Hodgson released the final 23-man list for the FIFA World Cup in Brazil, which did not include the England veteran, as reported in the Telegraph.

The Chelsea full-back potentially played his final game for the club on Sunday against Cardiff City as he lead the side without the likes of John Terry and Frank Lampard in the starting eleven. The Blues won the match, and it marked the last Barclays Premier League fixture for Cardiff who fall into the Championship after being relegated.

Hodgson announced the England squad on Monday afternoon, and Cole has been dropped, with Southampton youngster Luke Shaw taking over the position. In all probability, Leighton Baines will start in the final eleven, but Shaw might get an appearance through the group stages, and especially if England go through he could play if there are any injuries or suspensions. Hodgson has named a very youthful squad this time around, but there are players like Lampard and Steven Gerrard who are experienced campaigners for the Three Lions.

Cole has served Chelsea through several managerial and personnel changes, and has always been respected by the fans. He may have played his last game for Chelsea, but could continue playing at a new club and has undoubtedly been a stalwart for both the Chelsea first team and England, reflected by his 107 caps for his country and few would argue that in his prime he was the best left back in the world.

Thanks Ashley – you are a legend for your unbelievably, consistently high level performances despite the bad press you received for your off-field actions – you will be missed both by England and Chelsea FC.