Given ends international career

Shay Given has announced his retirement from international football for the second time.

Having retired from international football in 2012, Given returned to the Republic of Ireland set up following a request from manager Martin O'Neill and went on to feature during the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.

He was named in the squad for the recent finals in France but he did not play in any of Ireland's four matches as O'Neill elected to name Darren Randolph.

Following his emotional goodbye to the Irish fans after the defeat to France, the 40-year-old has called time on his international career.

“It’s every boy’s dream to play football for his school, his local club, and maybe, in his wildest dreams, his country,” a statement from Given read.

“To try be as good at football as his father was before him and make his mother proud.

“I’ve been blessed that I was able to do this, from kickabouts in the back yard at home in Co Donegal with my brothers, to playing for St Colomba’s Collage Stranorlar, Lifford Celtic and then to making my debut with the Republic of Ireland aged 18."

Given was capped 134 times for Ireland and he has thanks the fans, team-mates and managers for helping him during his international career.

"I’m one of the very lucky ones who got to wear the jersey for his country and wore the badge with pride 134 times. But now it’s time to hang up the gloves and move from the onion bag to the terraces, where I’ll be shouting the lads on as one of the Ireland’s biggest fans," he added.

“So as I retire from Ireland duty to focus on my club career, I want to say a HUGE thanks to everyone who supported me all the way — my close family, friends and amazing fans.

“Couldn’t have done it without you, and all my great team-mates, managers and friends at the FAI.

“Go raibh maith agat.”

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