Steven Reid calls time on Ireland career http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2010/0713/reids.html Tuesday, 13 July 2010 11:30 Steven Reid has retired from international football to concentrate on his club career. Reid has 23 caps for Ireland to date and made his debut in the 2-2 friendly against Croatia in Lansdowne Road in 2001 after he caught the eye of Mick McCarthy with impressive performances for Millwall and the Ireland Under 21s. 'It was a tough decision because I've had some terrific times with Ireland,' said Reid, who earlier this month signed a two-year West Bromwich Albion deal, plus a further year's option. '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. '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.' He continued: 'I wish the squad every success for the forthcoming European Championship qualifiers and thank the players, the back room team and the management for their help, support and friendship over the past nine years. I would also like to say a massive thank you to all the Irish fans for their support. They always got behind me and it was an honour to represent them.' Reid featured in games against Germany and Cameroon in the 2002 World Cup. He subsequently played under Brian Kerr, Stephen Staunton and Giovanni Trapattoni. He scored two international goals, the first against Russia in February 2002 and on the eve of the World Cup against Nigeria in May 2002. He also had the honour of captaining Ireland against the Netherlands in August 2006. Speaking in recognition of Reid's contribution to international football, Giovanni Trapattoni said: '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. On behalf of the Irish team, we wish Steven well for his future club career and we thank him for his outstanding commitment.' Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane said: 'Steven was always a great player to have around the Ireland camp both on and off the pitch. His talent and experience was invaluable in midfield and on a personal level, it was always a pleasure to play alongside him. On behalf of the squad, I would like to wish him all the best for his future club career.: I've always rated this player, it's a shame that injuries have plagued his career, the best of luck with your club football Steven, and thanks for your contribution to the international team
Yep, could have been a great player where it not for injuries. Think he is right concentrate on the club career. Hope it goes well for him at WBA.
Pity, prob well past his best at this stage, thumping right foot on him. Hope it goes well at West Brom.
Was a decent enough player in his day.Probably wise to give up international football to prolong his club career.Could be a good signing for WBA IF they can keep him injury free.
Poor chap has been plagued with Injuries since he was young. Was playing some excellent stuff for blackburn and had a wicked shot on him before he was injured..Done well to get his career back on track with West Brom last season.. Dont think he was going to feature heavily in Gio Trapps thoughts, so he is better focused on his bread and butter day job...