James McClean has bowed out of international football following a disappointing 1-1 draw between Ireland and New Zealand at the Aviva Stadium this evening.
Ireland took the lead through Adam Idah, in a first-half which they thoroughly dominated, with Player of the Match Mikey Johnston making hay.
However, New Zealand came back strongly in the second-half and nabbed a deserved equaliser, with Ireland youngster Andrew Moran also making his senior debut.
James McClean Speaks Passionately After Ireland Retirement
After the game, James McClean spoke with RTE's Tony O'Donoghue, and once again displayed the unrivalled passion he had for playing for his country, which made him one of, if not the, most beloved player of his generation.
It is over, it is over. Like I said Tony, for whatever reasons I'm calling it a day. It is the right time, and I have no regrets.
People have been asking me like 'I would have been teared up and I would have been emotional and I would have been crying', but I look back with so much happiness, there's no need to cry, there's no need to get emotional.
Because I lived my absolute dream and I've loved every minute of playing here..... I've no regrets, I've had the time of my life.
READ HERE: Ireland Player Ratings As Kenny Era Ends On A Bum Note With New Zealand Draw
"I look back on it with so much happiness. There's no need to cry."
James McClean reflects on a stellar career in the green jersey.
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— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) November 21, 2023
21 November 2023; James McClean of Republic of Ireland after the international friendly match between Republic of Ireland and New Zealand at Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
"They're probably sick of giving me one because just there in June for the 100 they gave me one," replied McClean when asked about the guard of honour from teammates and staff.
"But it shows you the kind of people they are, it's a brilliant dressing room, and I love working with every single one of them, and it's been fantastic.
"You'll really miss being in camp, being around the lads. It's a big family, and it's all pulling together to do the best for your country, and it doesn't get any better than that."
After making his debut in 2012 at the Aviva Stadium, McClean bows out on the day of his 103rd appearance.
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