Shay Given releases heartfelt statement as he retires from international football

For the second and final time, Shay Given has retired from international football.

After 134 caps and 20 years of service, the legendary stopper has played his final game for the Republic of Ireland. The 40-year-old confirmed his decision to hang up the international gloves in a heartfelt statement on Thursday evening, harking back to the days of breaking through at St Colomba's Collage Stranorlar and paying tribute to those who have given him his chance throughout a storied career as Ireland's last line of defence. Given retired from the Irish set-up in 2012 but returned to the fold when Martin O'Neill selected him as part of his squad for the early Euro 2016 qualifiers. The retirement decision was to be expected after Euro 2016, a tournament at which he acted as a substitute and advisor for Ireland's current No. 1 Darren Randolph. Given, largely considered to be the greatest goalkeeper in Irish history, released the below statement after deciding he had done all he can for the boys in green. “It’s every boy’s dream to play football for his school, his local club, and maybe, in his wildest dreams, his country,” the statement reads. “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.

"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.

“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.” No, Shay. Thank you!