Republic of Ireland veterans Shay Given, Damien Duff and Richard Dunne will not rush into a decision about whether to retire.
Loyal servants to take their time after Euro 2012 disappointment
Republic of Ireland veterans Shay Given, Damien Duff and Richard Dunne will not rush into a decision about whether to retire from international football.
Giovanni Trapattoni's side bowed out of Euro 2012 with a 2-0 defeat by Italy, following on from previous losses to Croatia and Spain.
The manner of Ireland's exit from the tournament has prompted suggestions that it is time for Trapattoni to bring through a new generation of players.
Captain Robbie Keane will take time to consider his future, but reports have claimed that the LA Galaxy striker is prepared to play on for Ireland.
In the build-up to the Italy game, Given admitted it could be time for him to stand aside, but the 36-year-old goalkeeper will not make a snap decision.
Too soon
Given, who made a record 125th Ireland appearance against Italy, said: "It's too soon straight after the game to make any rash decisions.
"I'll sit down with my kids and my wife and my family when I get home and just see what the best plan of action is.
"Obviously, we've got a new manager in at Aston Villa - I'd like to speak to him as well - and see what the best plan is for everyone."
Duff wore the captain's armband against Italy to mark his 100th cap and the Fulham winger will also take time to consider the situation.
"I've said I'll play until 100 for Ireland if they'd have me," said the 33-year-old. "Sometimes, it doesn't work like that. So we'll see.
"It's more important to talk about the team and how we've done over the past month. Obviously disappointing - weren't good enough."
Aston Villa defender Dunne added: "It's very hard because we've been preparing for this and dreaming. You don't want to be thinking about the finish.
"As soon as this comes around, you want to play and concentrate on this.
"Now probably is the time for whoever has thought about it to have a month away and make a decision in a month's time maybe.
"You've just been hammered three times and you're probably just sick of football at the moment.
"You just want to go away and think about it and start again in July and, as far as this is concerned, see what happens."
