Finnan quits Ireland duty
22 Jan 2008 - 14:58:26
Liverpool right-back Steve Finnan has announced his retirement from international football.
The 31-year-old made 50 appearances for Republic of Ireland after making his debut in the 1-0 home defeat to Greece almost eight years ago when he came into the team as a replacement for Stephen Carr.
Finnan was a key member of his country's squad at the 2002 World Cup Finals in Japan and South Korea, but injuries have disrupted his international career in recent years.
The former Fulham star told Liverpool's official club website: "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Republic team, with the World Cup in 2002 being the highlight of my international career.
"But I'll be 34 when the next tournament comes around so it's the right time for me to step down.
"There will be a new manager coming in soon who will have his own ideas for the future, with younger players having the chance to stake their claim to be in his plans."