Cameroon goalkeeper, Andre Onana has confirmed his retirement from the national team.
The Inter Milan shotstopper was kicked out of the squad in the group stage of the World Cup by national coach Rigobert Song after a difference of opinion.
Onana released a statement via social media on Friday expressing his gratitude for his time in Cameroon's shirt, but also explained that he has come to the decision to stop this journey.
‘It all started in Ngol Nkok, a small village where, from a very young age, my family instilled in me the values that characterize Cameroonians. I realized that love for this country is eternal and that commitment is non-negotiable.
‘I remember how we used to watch the matches as a family. Only Cameroonians can understand what it means to watch a lion game. That’s when I started dreaming of wearing the national team jersey.
‘And now, after endless training, endless traveling and a lot of perseverance, I can proudly say that I have fulfilled my great dream.
‘But every story, no matter how beautiful, has an end. And that’s the end of my story with the Cameroon national team.
‘Players come and go, names are fleeting, but Cameroon comes before any person or player. Cameroon remains eternal and my love for the national team and our people who have always supported us no matter how difficult the moment.
‘My feelings will never change. My Cameroonian heart will continue to beat and wherever I go I will always fight to raise the Cameroonian flag [sic] as high as possible.
‘I will continue to support as a fan, just like more than 27 million Cameroonians do every match. I can only thank those who believed in me and believed that I could join and contribute to this team.’
Onana has had an excellent season at club level, but the debacle at the global final tournament is a reason to end his international career. Onana did indicate that he remains a fan of his compatriots.
In the end, the keeper has represented Cameroon 35 times.