Magilton quits NI duty

Jim Magilton's club future at Ipswich is uncertain

By BBC Sport Online's Stuart McKinley

Ipswich Town midfielder Jim Magilton has revealed that he is ending his 11-year international career.

Magilton had to withdraw from Northern Ireland's last international squad against Spain because of health problems with his son and the veteran now feels his priorities lie with his family.

"Myself and my family have given the matter a lot of thought," said Magilton.

"Given the circumstances we find ourselves in, the only conclusion I can come to is that the time has come for me to announce my retirement from international football.

Sammy brought me back in from the cold

Jim Magilton

"It is a decision I never wanted to make because playing for Northern Ireland has brought me a lot of pleasure and enjoyment over the years.

"I have always given it my full commitment but now though I feel that I can't give it my full concentration.

"Without that I think it is right that I should let Sammy McIlroy bring in a younger man to take on my role," added Magilton.

Thirty-three-year-old Magilton retires with 52 caps - seven as captain - and five goals to his name.

He would have earned even more caps had he not been exiled by previous manager Lawrie McMenemy but Magilton prefers to remember the good times in his international career.

"The European Championship qualifiers are now the priority for Sammy and his squad.

"I think it is important for him to have every player fully focused on that and with my future at my club uncertain and my son's illness I can't give that focus.

"Sammy brought me back in from the cold and gave me back my international status and I will always be grateful to him for that.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank him and his staff for the last two years and for the support he has given me in the last couple of months.

Sammy McIlroy: Made Magilton captain

"I wish them every success in the coming campaign and they can rest assured that I will be cheering them on in every game," added Magilton.

Northern Ireland manager McIlroy paid tribute to Magilton's contribution to the international side during his reign.

"Jim has been a great servant for me and my assistant Jim Harvey and will be greatly missed," he said.

"I have spoken to him about his decision to quit and, although it is very unfortunate, I fully understand and respect his reasons.

"He was a great player for me with his excellent passing ability in the midfield area.

"But he was also an ideal man to have around the squad off the pitch. He had a great personality and always had a smile on his face.

"I have told him he is welcome back to join us or train with us any time if wishes to do so."