Former Sunderland skipper Jason McAteer has announced his retirement from international football.
McAteer, 33, did not have his contract at Sunderland renewed after last season and went on a free transfer to Tranmere Rovers in his native north-west England during the close-season.
His last game for Ireland was against Brazil in a friendly at Lansdowne Road in February, when he came on as a 64th minute substitute. He has 52 full Ireland caps and has represented Ireland through two World Cup tournaments, in 1994 and 2002.
In a statement released through his management company, he said that he hoped his retirement from the international game would help prolong his club career.
“To retire from competing for your country is probably the toughest decision for any sportsman. I have always been immensely proud to represent Ireland and have always given 100%.
“However, I am now 33 years old and have suffered with a couple of injuries in recent years which has affected me both mentally and physically, so I feel the time is right to step aside and let the talented youngsters have a go.
“We are lucky to have some cracking players coming through and it would be great to help these boys develop with the national side.”
