Diane Caldwell is the latest Republic of Ireland defender to confirm her retirement from international football.
Following the announcement by Liverpool captain Niamh Fahey last week, Caldwell has decided to step away after winning 102 caps since her debut against Denmark in 2006.
“I always hoped this day would never come,” she said via an FAI press release. “For me, playing for Ireland was everything. But now, it’s the right time for me to stop.
“Every time I put on the green jersey, I felt the utmost pride and passion to do the country justice. I absolutely loved every minute.
“I dedicated my life to Ireland for 21 years,” Caldwell continued. “From when I made my debut at 14-years-old for the under-17s, to making my senior debut at 17 years old, it’s a journey I’m immensely proud of.
“From cap one to 102, every one meant so much to me. Belting out Amhrán na bhFiann, arm in arm with my teammates and watching the tricolour wave, it never lost its honour.
“I’m so thankful for what my journey with Ireland has given me and for all the life lessons it taught me. I’m also so grateful for all the lifelong friendships it created, all my amazing teammates that I had the privilege of playing with and all the extraordinary fans whose support I truly valued.
“I look forward to being a supporter again knowing that my heart is full of cherished moments and unforgettable memories.”
Despite being a key member of the leadership group behind Ireland captain Katie McCabe, Caldwell only featured at the 2023 World Cup for the last seconds of the 0-0 draw with Nigeria in Brisbane.
Back in 2021, Caldwell and McCabe approached the former FAI performance director Ruud Dokter with concerns about the coaching methods of Ireland head coach Vera Pauw.
“But ultimately that fell on deaf ears and she got a contract extension,” revealed Caldwell in September 2023. “The results and performances that we got were in spite of Vera being our coach.
“I think there are many areas that could have been better under her tenure. I think preparation for games could have been better, physical preparation, opponent analysis, match tactics, in-game match tactics, changes, systems of play.”
Eileen Gleeson replaced Pauw as Ireland head coach in December 2023 but following Ireland’s failure to qualify for Euro 2025, Gleeson was relieved of her duties but she is believed to have returned to an unspecified role within the association.
“Diane deserves her place in Irish football history as someone who made a significant impact in an Ireland jersey,” said Marc Canham, the FAI chief football officer. “Part of the World Cup squad in 2023, she was a key figure in helping that team to forge a legacy that will benefit future generations of those involved in women and girls’ football.”
The FAI have been approached for an update on the recruitment process to replace Gleeson ahead of the Nations League opener at home to Turkey on February 21st. They have also been asked to clarify the former coach’s new role in Abbotstown.
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