Evans retires from international football

The 36-year-old defender won the last of his 107 caps in June and will undoubtedly be regarded among his country’s most accomplished players in history. 

Incredibly, only three men and two women - Steven Davis, Aaron Hughes, Pat Jennings, Julie Nelson and Ashley Hutton - have played more times for Northern Ireland than Evans.

Throughout a typically thoughtful and emotional statement posted across social media, Jonny explains the thinking behind his difficult decision. 

“After much thought and consideration and after 18 years, I feel like now is the right time to retire from international football,” writes Evans. “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 and representing the people of Northern Ireland has been my biggest honour. You, the fans are simply the greatest in the world. I have never been so proud to represent each and every one of you on the pitch. Your unwavering support and love has never gone unnoticed and I will miss those nights together.

“Without doubt the highlight of my international career has been the Euros in France 2016, reaching a major tournament and representing our wee country was a dream come true. 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.

“To my team-mates, and there’s been many: to play alongside you all has been an honour and the nights we’ve shared at Windsor Park and afar have been moments that we will all cherish, some of the best moments of our footballing careers.

“To my brother Corry, I want to thank you for being an incredible room-mate, team-mate and confidant. What we achieved and experienced together as brothers on the pitch is unique to only a few and something that I know we are both very grateful for.

“I would like to thank all my managers over the years. Lawrie Sanchez, Nigel Worthington, Ian Baraclough and of course Michael O’Neill. The majority of my caps have been under Michael who has been a constant throughout my career. His advice on and off the pitch has been invaluable to me both as a player and a person. The future of the team with Michael in charge is full of excitement and potential for many more successful days ahead for Northern Ireland and I will be cheering on like every single member of the Green and White Army.

“My thanks also must go to the team behind the team over the years, many of you have become great friends and it has been a privilege to work with such dedicated and hardworking staff.

“To my mum, dad, brother, sister, family and friends, thank you for being there every step of the way from the first cap to the last. I am so proud to be from Northern Ireland and seeing you all in the stands home and away has been the biggest comfort that any sportsperson can ask for.

“And finally to my wife Helen and our three children Lottie, Heidi and Eli. Thank you for being my inspiration and motivation. You have given me the strength and guidance to keep pushing for as long as I can and I’m so thankful that we’ve been able to share our love of football on this journey together.”

Congratulations on an incredible international career, Jonny. Everyone at Manchester United is proud of you.