Manchester United defender, Jonny Evans, on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, announced his retirement from international football.
Mr Evans’ announcement marks the end of a distinguished career that saw him earn 107 caps for Northern Ireland.
The 36-year-old defender made his debut for Northern Ireland in a memorable 3-2 victory over Spain in September 2006 and was part of the squad that competed in the Euro 2016 finals.
His final appearance for Northern Ireland came against Spain, this time with a 5-1 defeat in Mallorca in June 2024.
During his international career, Mr Evans captained Northern Ireland 15 times, started in 106 of his 107 international appearances, and scored six goals.
He announced his retirement just one day before Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill was set to name his squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Luxembourg and Bulgaria.
Reflecting on his career, Mr Evans in a statement said, “From my debut in 2006 when we defeated Spain to my last game in June 2024, it has been a privilege.
“Putting on the green shirt 107 times and representing the people of Northern Ireland has been my biggest honour.
“You, the fans, are simply the greatest in the world. I have been so proud to represent each and every one of you on the pitch,” the footballer said.
Also, Mr Evans, who signed a one-year extension with Manchester United in July 2023, revealed that he would have likely retired from football entirely if it hadn’t been for the opportunity to return to his boyhood club.
Mr Evans came through the youth ranks at Old Trafford and enjoyed a highly successful spell, winning the UEFA Champions League, three Premier League titles, and two English League Cups before leaving in 2015 for stints with West Bromwich Albion and Leicester City.
He returned to Manchester United in 2023 and helped the team lift the FA Cup last season.
Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill paid tribute to the international footballer saying,
“Managing Jonny has been an absolute privilege, he is one of our greatest players, as his 107 international caps clearly show.”
