Northern Ireland captain Jonny Evans has retired from international football with immediate effect to focus on his club career.
Steven Davis, Pat Jennings and Aaron Hughes are the only men to have played more times for the country than the Man United defender.
The 36-year-old, who was awarded an MBE for services to football in Northern Ireland last year, won his 107th and final cap against Spain in June.
Thank you, Jonny Evans 👏🏻 @6jevans pic.twitter.com/TmWO1e5OjD
— Northern Ireland (@NorthernIreland) August 28, 2024
Evans also made his first appearance for his country against La Roja, starting in a famous 3-2 win under Lawrie Sanchez in 2006.
‘My biggest honour’
Evans said playing for his country has been a “privilege” and added: “Putting on the green shirt 107 times and representing the people of Northern Ireland has been my biggest honour.”
Evans helped Northern Ireland to their first major tournament in 30 years at Euro 2016 and played all four games as his side reached the last 16.
A statement from Evans said: “Without doubt the highlight of my international career has been the Euros in France 2016, reaching a major tournament and representing our wee country was a dream come true,” added Evans.
Legend 💚🤍 #ThankYouEvans pic.twitter.com/r2I4CQHq66
— Northern Ireland (@NorthernIreland) August 28, 2024
Boss Michael O’Neill told BBC Sport: “Managing Jonny has been an absolute privilege. He is one of our greatest players as his 107 international caps clearly shows.
“Jonny always showed great leadership but also great humility and always looked out for the rest of the squad. He always loved playing for his country and we will miss his quality and presence in the games ahead.
“He has achieved so much in the game and our fans, like I do, will have many fond memories of him wearing the green and white shirt.”
Evans came through the ranks at Man United, making his debut in 2007, and had spells with West Brom and Leicester before returning to Old Trafford a year ago.
O’Neill will name his Northern Ireland squad for September’s Nations League games against Luxembourg and Bulgaria on Thursday.
