Wednesday 9 May 2018 18:49, UK
John O'Shea has announced he is to retire from international football after 17 years of representing the Republic of Ireland at senior level.
The 37-year-old's final game for his country will be a friendly against the USA at the Aviva Stadium on June 2.
O'Shea said: "It has been an amazing journey but I feel now is the right time to step aside for the next generation to enjoy the experiences I am so humbled to have been part of.
"I always wanted to play as much as I could at senior level and to now have 117 caps has truly been an honour.
"I've never taken anything in life for granted and the passing in the last year of my dad, Jim, and my friend and team-mate Liam Miller has shown me that every moment in life (not just football) should be cherished.
"I have certainly cherished my international career, it will be emotional walking out for the final time in front of the Ireland supporters. But it is now time to say thank you and allow others to lead the team forward, it's been an amazing honour to wear our green shirt."
O'Shea, who played nearly 400 times for Manchester United before moving to his current side Sunderland, also sent his best wishes to his former manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
The 76-year-old is in hospital recovering from brain surgery, and O'Shea said: "I would also like to acknowledge the support I have always received from Sunderland and, prior to that, Manchester United, in particular, Sir Alex Ferguson who is in my thoughts at the moment - get well soon Boss!"
