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Tributes pour in after Shay Given announces his retirement

Shay Given has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 40.

The Republic of Ireland goalkeeper took to Twitter yesterday to thank fans and his team-mates for their incredible support over the years.

“I’m one of the lucky ones who got to wear the jersey for his country and wore the badge with pride 134 times,” he wrote.

shay

Sad: Shay announced his retirement after participating in Euro 2016 | TWITTER

“But now it’s time to hang up the gloves and move from the onion bag to the terraces, where I’ll be shouting the lads on as one of Ireland’s biggest fans.

“So as I retire from Ireland to focus on my club career, I want to say a huge thanks to everyone who supported me all the way; my close family, friends and the amazing fans.

“I couldn’t have done it without you,” he added.

While the sports star will continue his club career with Stoke City, fans have taken to Twitter to pay tribute to Shay.

Ireland manager Martin O’Neill also praised Shay by saying, “There is no question that Shay was one of the best goalkeepers ever to don an Ireland shirt. I had the privilege of working with him these last few years.

“He came out of international retirement, worked his way back into the national team and was doing brilliantly until suffering an unfortunate injury against Germany last October. Despite not playing in France at UEFA EURO 2016 he was still a very positive influence in the camp.

“His club record speaks for itself. Those players who played in front of him all bear testimony to his brilliance. He is one of the best goalkeepers to have played in the Premier League since its inception,” he added.

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