Hal Robson-Kanu – the striker who scored one of Wales’ greatest goals in the country’s history – has retired from international football.
The West Brom forward, who is still only 29, confirmed his decision after being left out of the squad announced by manager Ryan Giggs on Wednesday.
Robson-Kanu will forever be remembered for the “Cruyff turn” and shot into a Belgian net on the unforgettable night of Wales’ 3-1 victory at the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 in France.
That crucial goal, to put Wales 2-1 ahead, was a sublime piece of skill on the highest stage but the truth of Robson-Kanu’s career since has been a struggle to reach anywhere near those heights for either club our country.
He retires having made 44 Wales appearances, scoring five goals, including two at the Euro 2016 finals.
“I have made the decision to retire from international football. Long thought, but a decision made; commitments to my family and dedicating what time I have available to them and choosing to focus on my club career within sport and time needed away from the game,” Robson-Kanu wrote.
“I wish Ryan Giggs and the team continued success in the years to come, and appreciate his understanding and support, a new generation to continue building on what Gary Speed and Chris Coleman have set in place.”
Giggs said he understands the decision made by the West Brom forward, who he believes has secured his status as a Welsh football “icon.”
“I spoke to him yesterday and it was a difficult decision for him,” Giggs said.
“He’s had a difficult six months, with the birth of his baby, and he wants to focus on his family and his club career.
“He’s an icon in Welsh football with the goal he scored against Belgium and I wish him all the best.”
Robson-Kanu and defender Neil Taylor were absentees from the Wales squad to play the Republic of Ireland and Denmark in Nations League qualifiers.
Newcastle defender Paul Dummett, who previously asked not to be selected for international football, has been recalled.
Dummett has not played for Wales since 2015 and declared himself unavailable for selection last summer under former manager Chris Coleman.
Dummett initially rejected Giggs’ invitation to join his first Wales squad at the China Cup in March, but earlier this month the 26-year-old indicated he would be willing to end his self-imposed international exile.
Giggs added: “It is a boost. I spoke to Paul when I took over and he wanted to focus on Newcastle at the time.
“But I’ve had a chat with Paul and he’s in a good place now.
“He’s playing regular and captained his boyhood club on the weekend. I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Teenage forward Tyler Roberts is selected in the Wales squad, as is Manchester City’s 18-year old Matthew Smith and Chelsea defender Ethan Ampadu.
However, Euro 2016 squad member Jazz Richards misses out.
Giggs also confirmed defender Ashley Williams will remain as Wales captain despite being sent off in two of his last four club appearances.
Wales squad: Hennessey, Ward, Adam Davies, Gunter, Roberts, Chester, Williams, Mepham, Lockyer, Ben Davies, Dummett, John, Ampadu, Allen, Smith, Ramsey, King, Ledley, Wilson, Brooks, Lawrence, Woodburn, Bale, Vokes, Roberts.