Goalkeeper Hugo Lloris announces France’s RETIREMENT

World champion goalkeeper Hugo Lloris announced his retirement from international football at the age of 36 on Monday night – the same day his former Tottenham team-mate Gareth Bale hung up his boots.

The Spurs and France stopper, who has 145 caps and captained the team 122 times, bids farewell after last year’s heartbreaking loss of the World Cup final to Argentina in Qatar as France looked to retain their 2018 title.

He said: “There comes a time when you have to know how to hand over the reins. I’ve always said that the French team doesn’t belong to anyone and we all have to make sure of that, me first.

Hugo Lloris (right) has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 36

The France and Tottenham goalkeeper won the 2018 World Cup when his side defeated Croatia

“I think the team is ready to continue. There’s also a goalkeeper who’s ready (AC Milan’s Mike Maignan).

“I’d rather go out on the high rather than wait for a downturn. There is also a family choice, I feel the need to spend more time with my wife and children.’

The French team’s official Twitter account posted a picture of a smiling Lloris with the caption: “A legend. Bravo and thanks for everything Hugo.’

Lloris’ international career spanned from 2008 to 2022 and saw him play in four World Cups and three European Championships tournaments.

He led them to world fame in Russia in 2018 before his side fell four years later, losing 4-2 on penalties to Lionel Messi’s Argentina in December.

Lloris, who has a record 145 caps, saw his side suffer heartbreak in December’s World Cup final

Les Bleus lost 4-2 on penalties to Argentina at the Tournament Festival in Qatar

Lloris’ former Spurs colleague Bale also announced his retirement from club and country duties on Monday, effective immediately.

Les Bleus boss Didier Deschamps added: “He told me about his decision a few days ago. I have to respect his decision – we are disappointed – even if he still had his place in our team, as he showed at the last World Cup in Doha. A very great servant of the French team says goodbye and I want to pay tribute to his extraordinary career.

“Apart from all the records he was able to break because of his talent and professionalism, apart from the essential role he played in our finest conquests, Hugo is a remarkable person on a human level. When I became captain in 2012, I kept the armband for him and have never regretted it, quite the contrary.

“Hugo has a very high image of the French team, he has always been guided by the collective, he has always brought the collective forward, sometimes even to his disadvantage.

“It was a pleasure and an honor to be his coach. I wish all coaches had players like him to manage. Hugo has all my respect and gratitude. I wish him that he is happy. A big thank you Hugo for representing your country so well.”