Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Lianne Sanderson has called time on her England career at the age of only 22, reports BBC Sport. Now with Philadelphia Independence in America's Women's Professional League, Sanderson claims she has been treated unfairly by the England hierarchy and in particular national coach Hope Powell.

"Whenever I've been playing well I don't think I've been given a fair chance," said Sanderson, who has scored eight goals in 29 England appearances.

"I feel like it's personal and it's got to the point where I can't take it anymore.

"I don't want to turn my back on my country, but as long as Hope Powell is in charge I don't see myself going back and I don't think she would want me there."

Powell's response to the young striker was short and to the point.

"This was Lianne's decision and I respect that," she said. "But I will not beg anyone to play for England."

Sanderson's shock decision has been taken in the aftermath of what she saw as a snub when she had to watch from the stands - rather than being involved in the playing squad - when England visited Spain for a World Cup qualifier in June.

"I have no divine right to be in the team or on the bench, but how can you fly me from America to Spain and then put me in the stand?" added Sanderson.

"Earlier in the year I'd scored a goal and set up two against Austria but a week later didn't even get on the pitch against Spain (in the home match at Millwall).

"After the game in Spain I was an emotional wreck and I'm still absolutely gutted - to want to do what I've done at 22, that's a sorry state of affairs."