Finnan calls it a day

Stephen Finnan has announced his retirement from the Republic of Ireland team today. The full back who made his debut against Greece in 2000 has racked up 50 appearances in the Irish shirt. He scored a last gasp equaliser at home to Cyprus to saves blushes. His final match was against Wales in Cardiff.




Finnan told www.liverpoolfc.tv

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Republic team, with the World Cup in 2002 being the highlight of my international career.

"But I'll be 34 when the next tournament comes around so it's the right time for me to step down.

"There will be a new manager coming in soon who will have his own ideas for the future with younger players having the chance to stake their claim to be in his plans."