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Duff quits Republic duty

Image: Damien Duff: Quitting international football after winning a 100 caps

Damien Duff has announced his retirement from international football with the Republic of Ireland.

Winger joins Given in calling it quits on international football

Damien Duff has announced his retirement from international football with the Republic of Ireland. The 33-year-old won his 100th cap in the final game of Ireland's Euro 2012 campaign against Italy earlier this summer. There has been speculation over Duff's international future following the tournament and the Fulham winger has followed his team-mate Shay Given in deciding to call it a day. Duff, who also featured for the Republic at the 2002 World Cup, admits it was a tough decision to quit playing for his country. "It has always been a source of immense pride for me to represent my country," Duff told the FAI's official website.

Respect

"I found it very difficult to make this decision, not least for the respect in which I hold Giovanni Trapattoni. "I have enjoyed so many good times in the green jersey and want to thank everyone involved, especially the fans for making the last 14 years so special. "I want to wish Giovanni, Marco and everyone involved with the Irish team every success for the future and will be supporting them every step of the way." Trapattoni paid tribute to Duff's service to his country and admitted the former Chelsea and Blackburn man will be missed. "Damien will be missed by us and by Irish fans everywhere," said Trapattoni. "He was immensely skilful and a great example to the players who come after him. I give him my warmest best wishes for his future career."

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