James McClean donned his Ireland jersey for the final time on Tuesday night.
James has played for the Irish team for over ten years after joining them in 2012 and celebrated his 100th cap for his country in the 3-0 win over Gibraltar in October.
However, it was an emotional goodbye as he played his final match, a friendly against New Zealand which ended in a 1-1 draw.
He shared a picture of himself on the pitch, simply writing: “29.2.12 – 21.11.23 thank you @irelandfootball its been the time of my life.”
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Speaking after the match, he said: “I think this is the right time to go. Not many people get to go out on their terms. I’ve had the absolute time of my life. I’ve achieved so much beyond my wildest dreams, I’ve had my time.
“The lads were saying tonight, ‘Why didn’t you cry? I would have cried’ but I don’t see the need to cry because like I said, I had the time of my life, I’ve had so many happy memories, and it’s been an absolute honour.
“I’m going to call it how I see it. There is so much ability here. These lads are young, that’s not making excuses for them. International football is a whole different level.”
He was joined on pitch by his three eldest children – Allie May, James Jr and Willow Ivy – before the match kicked off.
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James also shared pictures of him with the team writing: “This group of lads like the ones before incredible.”
Of course, there was no shortage of well-wishes for the footballer. Johnny Sexton, who also retired this year announcing he would be leaving rugby behind, swung by to see James.
The pair swapped jerseys with Irish Football sharing a picture of the pair with the caption: “Game recognises game.”
Shane Duffy shared a picture of himself and James together, writing: “End of another campaign. Not the one we all hoped for but proud as always with this group of players. A big special mention to @macajw one of the greats to put on the Irish jersey and bowing out tonight.
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“Been a privilege to be by your side for most of it from a boy from derry doing our city proud! Thanks to the amazing Irish support once again this year! The best in the world.”
Another teammate Evan Ferguson wrote: “Best fans in the world, thank you for all your support! And congratulations to @macajw, an Irish legend.”
His wife Erin McClean shared a picture of James with his four children, including baby Mia Rose who was born in February. She just captioned it with a crying emoji, a tricolour and a green heart.
Congratulations James on an incredible career.
