Football: Tributes for Donaghy as he retires
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.MAL Donaghy has ended his Northern Ireland international career after a record 91 games.
Bryan Hamilton, the Northern Ireland manager, was set to name the 36-year-old defender in his squad for next week's European Championship qualifier against Portugal - even though he has not found a new club since being released by Chelsea at the end of last season.
However, Donaghy, Northern Ireland's most-capped outfield player, told Hamilton he has decided to retire from international football.
Hamilton said: 'He told me he believed the time was right for him to step down as a Northern Ireland player. Captaining his country against World Cup finalists Colombia and Mexico in his last two games was a fitting note to go out on, he believed. We'll all miss him. He was an exceptionally good player for us for 14 years.'
Paying tribute to Donaghy, second only on the Northern Ireland all-time caps list to goalkeeper Pat Jennings (119), the Irish FA secretary, David Bowen, said: 'This is a sad day. Mal has given us such distinguished service over the years.'
Alan McDonald, the Queen's Park Rangers defender who is back in the squad after injury, is set to resume as captain against the Portuguese.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments