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James McClean has expressed his support for the younger players on the Republic of Ireland team and believes they have the ability to reach their full potential, as he has recently retired from international play.
The 34-year-old won his 103rd and last Ireland cap in Tuesday night’s 1-1 friendly draw with New Zealand and bade an emotional farewell to team-mates and fans alike after a 11 and a half years in the green shirt during which he played at the finals of two major tournaments.
Other than McClean, there are other individuals whose tenure in the national team has come to an end. This includes manager Stephen Kenny, whose contract was not renewed due to a disappointing performance in the Euro 2024 qualifiers. However, the defender from Wrexham is confident that the groundwork he has laid down will result in positive outcomes.
After the game, he stated, “I will speak honestly. This team has a lot of talent. Despite their youth, I am not using it as an excuse. Playing at the international level is a completely different experience.”
“With more experience, these individuals will improve and I am confident that in the future, they will lead us to success, specifically in qualifying for major tournaments.”
Believing in oneself is key, as the potential is present. The challenge is maintaining consistency and performing at a high level every game. With more experience, this will undoubtedly be achieved.
McClean has experience qualifying for tournaments, as he has played for Ireland in both Euro 2012 and France 2016.
The Republic achieved a major triumph at their last game, defeating Italy 1-0 in Lille and advancing to the last-16 round to face the host team, France.
McClean expressed, “The victory against Italy in Lille that night was… as I’ve mentioned previously, I wish we could preserve that feeling because if we could and monetize it, it would be a great success. It was truly remarkable.”
“It has been an incredible experience. Since my first game against the Czech Republic in 2012, the support from the fans in this stadium has been outstanding, both at home and away.”
“It was another very special moment. I take pride in how my loved ones and teammates see me as a person, and tonight’s events demonstrated their perception of me.”
Over the years, I have formed strong bonds with my teammates, which I will miss. The sense of camaraderie within the team and the experience of competing alongside these individuals are things I will always remember.
Last month, McClean declared that he would be retiring from international soccer and did not have any regrets about his decision after his last game.
The speaker expressed that now is the appropriate moment to leave, as not everyone has the opportunity to do so. They reflected on their experiences and accomplishments, which have exceeded their expectations. They feel content with the time they have had.
My friends asked me why I didn’t cry tonight. They said they would have cried. However, I don’t feel the need to cry because, as I mentioned before, I had an amazing time. I have many joyful memories and it has been a great honor.
The information comes from the Independent website.
The source of this information is the website of The Independent.
