James McClean’s wife Erin has posted an emotional tribute to him, after he confirmed his retirement from international football.
The Derry native, who won praise for sharing his autism diagnosis earlier this year, announced the news on social media this morning.
The 34-year-old revealed the Republic of Ireland’s upcoming November friendly against New Zealand will be his final appearance for the team.
Reacting to James’ post, Erin wrote on Instagram: “It has been the privilege of my life watching you live your dream of playing for Ireland 102 times.
“Your dedication & loyalty to show up every single camp for 11 years proves the type of person you are. We love you and are SO proud of you.
“It’s been so special and the memories made from your time in the jersey will last a lifetime.”
James has been married to his wife Erin since 2016, and the couple share four children – Allie May, James Jr, Willow Ivy, and Mia Rose.
In his retirement post, James wrote: “On February 20th 2012, I received my first call-up to represent my country. In all honestly, hand on heart, there are no words that could do justice to that feeling.
“Since then, 102 caps, 11 goals and two European Championships. Now, 11 years later, I have come to a point, one that truth be told you never think is going to come but here we are, where I am announcing my retirement from international football at the end of the 2023 season.
“I have spoken with Stephen Kenny & the New Zealand match in November at the Aviva Stadium will be the last time that I will celebrate pulling on the green jersey as a player and give me a chance to say goodbye to the best fans in the world.
“It has the meant the absolute world and more to be able to pull on the green jersey with honour, step out onto a football pitch – especially at the Aviva Stadium – to represent our great country, standing singing Amhrán na bhFiann ready to go out into battle with your fellow countrymen. Nothing has ever come close.”
“I gave absolutely everything I had of myself to ensure that I did the jersey, the fans and the country proud, and know that I never took it for granted each time. I hope that showed.
“It will be heartbreaking not to be involved beyond this year, but I feel now is the right time to step aside without any regrets. I lived my own and every young Irish footballer’s dream – and represented this country with pride.
“I want to thank all my managers – Giovanni, Martin, Mick and Stephen – for me giving me the opportunities; all my teammates; the staff, everyone from the coaching staff, right down to those at the hotel who looked after us; you, the Irish fans; and finally, a special thank you to my wife Erin for holding the fort back home with the kids – your unwavering and selfless support has allowed me to make the most of every second of my childhood dream.
“Thank you, Ireland – it’s been the biggest privilege and as always, an honour.”
The news comes after James appeared on Patrick Kielty’s first Late Late Show last month.
The footballer made his first senior appearance for Ireland in 2012 against Czech Republic.
The 34-year-old, who won his 100th cap against Gibraltar at the Aviva Stadium last June, scored 11 times for his country.
