Adams retirement saddens Eriksson

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has expressed his "sadness" at the international retirement of Tony Adams but he will respect the defender's decision.  

Adams, 34, who captained England in their last international at Wembley against Germany, announced last night that he had "taken the decision to listen to my body".

He will no longer represent England, concentrating in future solely on playing for Arsenal, and will therefore not be available for next month's friendly against Spain, when David Beckham is expected to captain the side.

In a statement released by the Football Association, Eriksson declared: "I was sorry to hear of Tony Adams' international retirement but I respect his decision.

"He has been an extremely important player for many years for both Arsenal and England and I have always admired his leadership qualities.

"I have met him many times when I have been with Benfica, Sampdoria and Lazio and he impressed me as a captain."

Eriksson is expected to meet up with Adams again when he watches Arsenal in action in the next couple of weeks, although the Swede will not be doing so in an attempt to change the defender's mind.

The FA have also paid tribute to Adams' distinguished England career, in which he has represented his country 66 times.

FA head of communications Paul Newman said: "During his 13 years of playing for England, Tony Adams has been a marvellous servant for his country and an influential captain, particularly to the younger players around him.

"His experience, enthusiasm and commitment will be sorely missed."