Jonny Evans calls time on Northern Ireland career and reflects on 'biggest honour' of representing country

Evans, 36, made his debut in Northern Ireland’s memorable 3-2 win over Spain in September 2006 and was part of the side that played at the Euro 2016 finals. His final international appearance was also against Spain, albeit in a 5-1 defeat in Mallorca in June.

The Manchester United defender captained his country on 15 occasions. He started 106 of the 107 internationals in which he played and scored six goals.

Evans announced his decision to retire a day before Michael O’Neill is due to name his squad for next week’s Nations League fixtures against Luxembourg and Bulgaria.

“After much thought and consideration and after 18 years, I feel like now is the right time to retire from international football,” Evans said in a statement.

“From my debut in 2006 when we defeated Spain to my last game in June 2024, it has been a privilege.

“Putting on the green shirt 107 times and representing the people of Northern Ireland has been my biggest honour. You, the fans, are simply the greatest in the world. I have been so proud to represent each and every one of you on the pitch.”

Evans described playing at Euro 2016 as the “highlight of my international career”.

“Those nights in France, a sea of green in the stands, with the GAWA in full voice, they are memories that will stay with me forever,” Evans said.

Evans signed a one-year extension to remain at Manchester United in July and said at the time he would have probably retired completely had there not been an offer from his boyhood club.

Evans came through the ranks at United, winning the Champions League, three Premier League titles and two League Cups before leaving in 2015 for spells with West Brom and Leicester, before returning to Old Trafford in 2023 and lifting the FA Cup last season.

His Northern Ireland exit comes soon after the retirements of Steven Davis and Stuart Dallas, both enforced through injury, but at a time when a new generation of players is giving Northern Ireland renewed hope of qualifying for a major tournament.