Niamh Fahey says farewell to her time with the Girls in Green as the Galwegian announces her international retirement

The 115 timed capped Niamh Fahey has called time on her 17 year international career with Ireland. 

The three-time winner of the FAI Senior Women's International Player of the Year made her senior debut for Ireland way back in 2007 in an Algarve Cup game against Portugal under Noel King.

She hit the 100 century mark in February 2022. Her only goal came in her penultimate international appearance in the game in Georgia in June 2022.

The highpoint of her international career was playing in all three games at the 2023 FIFA World Cup.

Upon announcing her international retirement, Fahey said: "After 17 years in green, from my debut to cap 115 for the Ireland Women's National Team, I have been on a journey beyond expectation and it has been a huge source of immense motivation, privilege and pride. 

"A sincere thank you to all the people who have been on the journey with me and helped me in so many aspects; Friends, neighbours, teachers, coaches, colleagues, managers, team-mates, fans and many more! Your support, investment, passion and belief has pushed and inspired me in every way possible. 

"To my family, who have been a core support and sounding board throughout, I would not have achieved what I have without you. I can’t thank you enough for everything, especially my parents Marjorie and Richard. 

"There have been countless highs and lows, but the feeling of elation and satisfaction en route to qualifying and representing our country on the world stage at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023 will live long in the memory. 

"I look forward to watching and supporting the team and the future generations to come in what is only the continuation of more memorable moments at the highest level for our Women’s National Team. 

"Go raibh míle maith agat."

The 37-year-old Liverpool player was part of the group of Ireland players who protested at Liberty Hall in 2017 demanding better treatment and conditions for the women’s national team from the FAI.

The FAI Chief Football Officer Marc Canham paid tribute to the player: “Niamh was a superb player, leader and role model throughout her international career with Ireland and she leaves behind a legacy as one of the best to ever play for the Women’s National Team.

"As much as she helped the team as a player, she also made a significant impact in the growth of women and girls’ football in Ireland and we will be forever grateful for all that she has done.”

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— extratime.com (@extratime.com) 9 January 2025 at 19:42