Ipswich Town star Massimo Luongo has retired from international football - meaning he won't miss any time for the Blues next month.

The midfielder, who's won 45 caps and scored six goals for Australia, was set to miss up to five games as the Socceroos compete in the Asian Cup from January 12.

But it emerged overnight that he's decided to call time on his international career.

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The 31-year-old made his debut for his country in 2014, was named MVP of the Asian Cup in 2015 and featured in their World Cup squads in both 2014 and 2018.

He'd only recently got back in the mix due to his superb form with Town, facing fierce rivals New Zealand in London in October, in what was his first cap since 2019.

East Anglian Daily Times: Massimo Lunogo played for Australia against New Zealand recently after a long spell outside the international mixMassimo Lunogo played for Australia against New Zealand recently after a long spell outside the international mix (Image: PA)
Luongo said: "It was a hugely frustrating time to be on the sidelines so regularly and to be honest, there were many points in the last few years where I felt my international career had passed me by.

"To eventually have everything come together and get that call from Arnie was a great reward for all that hard work.

“Coming back into camp was an amazing experience and to be able to get back on the pitch against New Zealand was a really nice moment for me and my family.

“My family have been unbelievable throughout my entire career, supporting me every step of the way.

"They’ve given me the opportunity to live out my dream of representing Australia and for that I’ll always be grateful.

"This hasn’t been a decision I’ve taken lightly, but I’ve got to prioritise managing my body as my career goes on.

"I’ve loved my journey with the national team and will always cherish the moments I’ve had in this jersey.

"I look forward to watching on now as this group of young players drive the Socceroos culture forward."

East Anglian Daily Times: Luongo is a key part of Town's side - and successLuongo is a key part of Town's side - and success (Image: Ross Halls)

Australian head coach Graham Arnold said that while he is disappointed to see Luongo retire from international football, he understands the reasons for the midfielder's decision.

“When it comes down to it, Mass needs to do what’s right for him and his family,” Arnold said.

“He’s been through the highs and lows of football and throughout his career has shown us his prodigious talent, his incredible professionalism and his qualities as a leader.

“After a tough period of injuries, we were just so pleased to see him fit again and settled into a club where he was enjoying his football and playing well.

"It was fantastic to have him back in camp working with some of our young midfielders, who I know took a lot out of that experience.

“He’s been an enormous contributor to the Socceroos across the course of his career and we wish him all the best."