Sinead Farrelly announces international retirement
Sport

Sinead Farrelly announces international retirement

Sinead Farrelly has confirmed that she is retiring from international football after representing the Republic of Ireland Women's National Team.

The US-born midfielder made her debut in April 2023 and played in eight games overall, including all three of Ireland's Group B games at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup and in three UEFA Nations League fixtures.

Eligible through her Cavan-born father, Farrelly is still contracted to NJ/NY Gotham in the NWSL but has called time on her international career.

Farrelly said, "It is with a tremendous amount of sadness that I've made the difficult decision to retire from international football. 

"Even though I was a latecomer to international football, it meant so much to me and my family. To pull on the Ireland jersey, sing the national anthem, and represent the Farrelly family from Cavan (and beyond) was truly special.

"I'd like to thank Vera Pauw and Eileen Gleeson, all of the backroom and support staff, every player who I was proud to call a teammate, and, of course, the amazing Irish supporters who welcomed me with open arms.

"To play for Ireland was a dream that came true, and it is an experience that I will cherish forever. I got to play in a World Cup, but more than that, I got to play for this country, and I'm just so grateful for having that opportunity because it is one of the greatest honours of my career.

"I will continue to support the team and will always hold close the fantastic memories that I made playing for Ireland."

WNT Head Coach Eileen Gleeson commented: "I'd like to thank Sinead for her time representing Ireland, and we wish her the very best in her career going forward."