Norwich City

Norwich midfielder retires from international duty

Norwich City midfielder Wes Hoolahan has retired from international duty, according to ITV Sport.

The Canaries midfielder first appeared for the Republic of Ireland in 2008, making his international debut against Colombia. However the 35-year-old was regularly overlooked by former Irish boss Giovanni Trapattoni.

Hoolahan has 43 caps for the national side, however his last appearance for the Republic of Ireland was in the 5-1 World Cup play-off defeat to Denmark in November.

Speaking in an interview with ‘The Herald’, Hoolahan admitted that the idea of being 38 for the 2020 European Championships was a major factor in hanging up his boots for international duty.

“It wasn’t an easy decision to make, to retire, but I feel it’s one I had to make and this is the right time to do it,” Hoolahan said.

“It’s a mixture of things that led me to make this decision but mainly age, I will be 36 soon, I’ll be 38 when the next Euros come around, so it’s time to move aside.

“I spoke to Martin O’Neill last week and he accepted my decision. He didn’t try and talk me around, he knew my mind was made up and it was time to go.

“I loved it, loved every minute of it, every time I was called up it was an honour and I was honoured to get to 43 caps, I am very happy with that.

“I have great memories and they will last forever. I grew up dreaming of playing for my country, and when that dream came true for me it was a great honour.”

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