Manchester United centre-back Jonny Evans has retired from international football with his beloved Northern Ireland.
The 36-year-old defender won the last of his 107 caps in June and will undoubtedly be regarded among his country’s most accomplished players in history.
Incredibly, only three men and two women - Steven Davis, Julie Nelson, Pat Jennings, Ashley Hutton and Aaron Hughes - have played more times for Northern Ireland than Evans.
Throughout a typically thoughtful and emotional statement posted across social media, Jonny explains the thinking behind his difficult decision.
“After much thought and consideration and after 18 years, I feel like now is the right time to retire from international football,” writes Evans.