Republic of Ireland have suffered a blow ahead of their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign with the news midfielder Steven Reid has decided to retire from international football (Republic of Ireland 80/1 to win Euro 2012).
Reid has 22 caps for his country and made his debut in the 2-2 draw with Croatia in 2001 but has decdied to call it a day at international level in order to concentrate on his club form with newly-promoted West Brom (West Brom 4/5 to be relegated from the Premier League next season).
“It was a tough decision because I’ve had some terrific times with Ireland,” said Reid who has recently signed a new two-year deal with the Baggies.
“But having weighed everything up, I know this is the right decision. The injuries I’ve had over the past couple of years have been well documented and I’ve taken this step to prolong my club career and to spend more time with my family.”
Reid was part of the Ireland squad that reached the knockout stages of the 2002 World Cup and his performances gained him a move to Premiership side Blackburn.
However, his stay at Ewood Park was blighted by injuries and Reid says that retiring from international football was a decision made in conjunction with his new club’s medical staff as he looks to make a fresh start at the Hawthorns.
“It’s a decision I came to after lengthy discussions with the club’s medical staff and my family. I’ve had some unforgettable times with Ireland, the highlight being making two appearances at the World Cup Finals in Japan and South Korea in 2002 and it has always been a huge honour for me to wear the Irish jersey.
“It’s just a shame my injuries cut short the number of caps I possibly could have won over the past few years.”
Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni said he was “sorry” about the news and thanked the midfilder for his contribution to the side in recent years.
“We are sorry to hear about Steven’s decision to retire from international football to concentrate on his club career at West Bromwich Albion.
“His commanding presence for the Republic of Ireland will be missed by his teammates and fans alike. Steven always showed tremendous commitment to the Irish jersey even during difficult times in his career and for that we thank him most warmly.”
He added: “On behalf of the Irish team, we wish Steven well for his future club career and we thank him for his outstanding commitment.”
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