After 15 years and 144 caps, Scotland defender Jen Beattie has announced she will retire from international football.


The talismanic defender has been a mainstay in the Scotland Women’s National Team for more than a decade, helping guide Scotland to a first major tournament in 2017, followed by qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019.


Jen made her senior national team debut in March 2008, aged 16, against the United States in Cyprus. She scored her first goal later that same year in a 4-1 win over Portugal in a European Championship qualifier.


Despite becoming an integral part of the Scotland back-line, Jen had a fruitful foray into an attacking role – memorably scoring against England in a 2-0 victory in 2011. In total, she amassed an impressive 24 goals across her international career.


Despite being a key player in the qualification campaign, injury prevented Jen from taking part in the 2017 UEFA Women’s European Championships. However, she was named in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad where she went on to score against Argentina in a 3 -3 draw.


Amongst the many memories and accolades, Jen will be remembered for her professionalism, talent and courage in a Scotland jersey.


Jen Beattie: “Representing Scotland has been an absolute honour and a dream come true.


“Thank you so much to every single staff member and player that has made my experiences so memorable and enjoyable. I’ve made friends for life.


“I’ve been a part of the national team for almost half of my life and it’s been incredible to contribute to the growth of the game.


“I look forward to supporting Scotland from the stands and I wish Pedro and the team all the best for the future.”


Scotland Women’s National Team Head Coach Pedro Martinez Losa: “Jen’s contribution to the
women’s game in Scotland deserves the highest recognition and it has been a privilege to work with her.


“Her exemplary professionalism is an inspiration and she is a wonderful example of the
determination, talent and dedication required to make it to the top of the women’s game.


“On behalf of everyone involved in women’s football in Scotland, I’d like to thank Jen for everything she has done for the game. It’s been a pleasure to work with her and the legacy she leaves behind will be long lasting.


“This is not a goodbye but the start of a new chapter in her career, one in which she can always count on my support.”