The Toffees legend joins a number of world-class footballers who have returned to their national sides after initially retiring
England and Everton veteran Wayne Rooney recently announced his decision to come out of international retirement for a one-off special charity match against the U.S. National Team – but the Three Lions' all-time record goalscorer isn't the first player to have reversed his decision and feature for his country again.
Getty1George Weah | Liberia, 2018
Liberia legend George Weah returned to the national team for a special friendly against Nigeria in September 2018, playing at 51 years of age while also balancing his duty in office as the country's president.
The No.14 shirt which was worn by Weah at the peak of his playing career was retired during the friendly, and the former striker received a standing ovation when substituted in the game.
AdvertisementGetty Images2Tim Cahill | Australia, 2018
In July 2018, the Australia veteran announced his retirement from international football shortly after the end of the World Cup finals in Russia, but immediately overturned with the decision to participate in one final home friendly planned against Lebanon in November 2018.
AFP3Kevin-Prince Boateng | Ghana, 2013
In November of 2011, Boateng announced his retirement from the Ghana squad due to fatigue from travel at 24 years of age – and missed out on participating in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
In October 2013, however, the midfielder was called up for Ghana's 2014 World Cup qualification play-offs against Egypt, and his goal against the Pharoahs in the 89th minute secured qualification for the Black Stars in Brazil.
Getty4Asamoah Gyan | Ghana, 2014
During the Africa Cup of Nations in January 2008, Gyan and his brother Baffour opted to leave the Black Stars after his team were criticised for their unconvincing 1-0 win over Namibia.
The media became aware that the brothers intended to walk out on the Ghana side and were ready to leave the team hotel, but were persuaded to stay by their teammates.
After Gyan missed a crucial penalty kick in the 2012 African Cup of Nations semi-final, however, that led to Ghana losing 1-0, he decided to take an 'indefinite break' from international duty – but announced his return to the Black Stars a few months later and still features for the side.