The FAI confirmed the striker’s retirement in a statement earlier this evening
Ireland will be without David McGoldrick for the upcoming games against England, Wales and Bulgaria. This comes after the Sheffield United striker announced his shock international retirement this evening.
“The Sheffield United forward has decided to retire from international football to concentrate on his club career and family”, the FAI announced in a short statement earlier this evening.
McGoldrick had a brief Ireland career but he will be fondly remembered by Ireland fans. His performance against Georgia and his goal against Switzerland were the defining moments of his international career.
The striker won a total of 14 caps – despite being first called up in 2014 – for the Republic of Ireland. McGoldrick has only established himself as a starter within the past year or so. He was named Ireland senior player of the year in August after a fine series of games in the green shirt.
Although not a regular goalscorer for his country – or club for that matter – McGoldrick always gave 100% and his unselfish playstyle endeared himself to Irish fans. His last game for the country came against Slovakia in October. Despite not scoring, McGoldrick was arguably man of the match in that game. His tireless running and exquisite touch contributed to terrific performance.
Stephen Kenny is set to name his upcoming Ireland squad on Thursday. McGoldrick’s absence will come as a real blow to himself and Ireland fans alike.
David McGoldrick announces his retirement from international football
The Football Association of Ireland would like to thank David for his fantastic service and wish him all the best for the future
➡️ https://t.co/ynNrU76RpS#COYBIG pic.twitter.com/0rDQ4OjN2I
— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) November 4, 2020
