Arsenal Ladies' Kelly Smith, England's record record goalscorer, has announced her retirement from international football.

The 36-year-old, who was born in Watford, scored 46 times in 117 appearances for England after making her debut against Italy in 1995.

Speaking to the Football Association's website, Smith said: "Playing for England has been such an important part of my life for so long, but I feel now is the right time for me to retire from international football.

"I'm at a different stage in my life now, I am focusing on coaching and working my way up to get my licences and stay involved in football that way, along with playing for Arsenal.

"Women's football has changed so much since I started playing and I am proud to have been a part of that. I'm pleased that I'll still be working in the game and with The FA in its activities moving forwards.

"I'd like to thank everyone who has supported me in my career, everyone at England and The FA, team-mates, coaches, friends and family."

Smith became just the third English woman to reach 100 caps for the Three Lions and has represented her country at four European Championships and two World Cups, as well as turning out for Team Great Britain at the 2012 Olympic Games.

England head coach Sampson commented: "Kelly will be remembered as one of the iconic players in the history of the women’s international game.

"The term 'world class' is often overused but when looking back over Kelly’s international career she has consistently shown on the biggest stage she was without a doubt one of the greatest ever players.

"Her legacy is not only on the field but off it, there are thousands of young girls who would count Kelly as their inspiration as well as a number of our current senior squad would see Kelly as their role model. Her ability combined with her determination to win made her a fantastic role model for our current group of senior and youth players."