Shay Given retires from Republic of Ireland duty
Last updated on .From the section Euro 2012
Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given has announced his retirement from international football.
Given, 36, is the highest-capped player in Republic history having played 125 times for his country.
The Aston Villa man said that his decision to quit international football had been "extremely difficult".
"I have dedicated 16 years of my life to my country and I have a great affinity with Giovanni Trapattoni's squad," he added.
"I'd like to thank Giovanni, Marco (Tardelli) and Alan Kelly for their support during my time with the team.
"I will continue to be Ireland's biggest fan and wish the lads well as they embark upon their new campaign."
Given made his international debut aged 19 in the 2-0 friendly defeat to Russia, and quickly established himself as the long-term replacement for Paddy Bonner.
After continuing to excel for club and country, he played every minute at the World Cup in 2002 but was unable to stop Ireland going out in the second round on penalties to Spain.
It would be another decade before he played tournament football again, with the end of the wait proving bittersweet as both he and his nation endured a difficult time at Euro 2012 as Ireland exited at the group stage after they lost all three games and conceded nine goals.
While he did confirm his international retirement, a Football Association of Ireland statement added that Given had indicated that he would be prepared to "make himself available" in any emergencies in the future.
The FAI statement added the Trapattoni had spoken "at length" with Given on Monday afternoon before the retirement was confirmed.
Trapattoni praised Given for his "outstanding contributions to Ireland during his 16-year international career".
"I understand the difficult decision that Shay had to make and appreciate all of his efforts during his international career," said the Republic manager.
"He is a strong player with a great character and his love of playing for his country always shone through.
"It has been a pleasure to work with him during my time with the team. I wish him the very best in his future."
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good on ya shay. tough act to follow.
What are you going on about?
We all enjoyed the Olympics. I was happy we did well.
A lot of us like football. Shay Given was a top keeper and deserves some credit.
Now do one. I am SICK to death of the idiots wh have watched a bit of rowing and feel the need to try and discredit the world's most popular sport.
And it always will be.
Well done Shay btw.
Kept Ireland in so many games over the years. Pure class.
If Wenger had signed him for Arsenal ten years ago they might have a few extra trophies.
As a villa fan I'm glad we have a keeper like shay... He's a quality player and played a huge part in us avoiding relegation by the skin of our teeth...
He sounds pretty Irish when you hear him in interviews so can't argue with that really...
By far one of the best PL keepers.
What an absolute LEGEND!
(at least, that's what they said about Micah Richards & Michael Carrick)