REPUBLIC of Ireland’s Niamh Fahey has announced her retirement from international football after 17 years.
The 115-times capped Galway native was one of the leaders of the Irish team during her time involved.
The 37-year-old Liverpool defender described her time with Ireland as “a journey beyond expectation”.
Fahey was always a steady presence at the heart of the Irish defence and played in all three World Cup finals games in Australia last year.
“After 17 years in green, from my debut to cap 115 for the Ireland Women’s National Team, I have been on a journey beyond expectation and it has been a huge source of immense motivation, privilege and pride,” said Fahey.
“A sincere thank you to all the people who have been on the journey with me and helped me in so many aspects: Friends, neighbours, teachers, coaches, colleagues, managers, team-mates, fans and many more.
“Your support, investment, passion and belief has pushed and inspired me in every way possible.
“To my family, who have been a core support and sounding board throughout, I would not have achieved what I have without you. I can’t thank you enough for everything, especially my parents Marjorie and Richard.
“There have been countless highs and lows, but the feeling of elation and satisfaction en route to qualifying and representing our country on the world stage at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023 will live long in the memory.
“I look forward to watching and supporting the team and the future generations to come in what is only the continuation of more memorable moments at the highest level for our Women’s National Team. Go raibh míle maith agat.”
Fahey’s decision to step away now makes sense following Ireland’s devastating Euro finals play-off defeat to Wales in November.
She represented Ireland at U15, U16, U17 and U19 level and made her senior debut against Portugal in an Algarve Cup game in March 2007.
She scored her first, and only goal, on her 104th appearance away to Georgia in June 2022 and is a three-time winner of the FAI Senior Women’s International Player of the Year.
FAI Chief Football Officer Marc Canham said: “Niamh was a superb player, leader and role model throughout her international career with Ireland and she leaves behind a legacy as one of the best to ever play for the Women’s National Team.”
