Richard hangs up his boots
RICHARD KEOGH has announced his retirement from football after 20 seasons in the game.
And the 37-year-old revealed how captaining Ireland was the highlight of his career.
The former centre-back won 26 caps for the Boys in Green between 2013 and 2019, first under Giovanni Trapattoni and then Martin O’Neill and Mick McCarthy.
Keogh captained
Ireland on four occasions, in friendlies against Oman, Belarus and Poland and in a Nations League clash with Wales.
He was also part of the Ireland squad at Euro 2016 in France, playing in the win over Italy and the Last 16 defeat to the hosts.
In a statement, Keogh said: “I wish I could play on forever, but we all knew this day would come. So after 786 appearances over 20 years, I am announcing my retirement.
Better
“My career surpassed all my expectations, full of unforgettable moments that not only made me a better player but a better person.”
Keogh continued: “Wearing the captain’s armband for Ireland was the ultimate honour.
“To represent the green jersey was the impossible dream and to play in a major tournament was a dream come true.
“The camaraderie, the matches, the shared moments with fans, these are moments that will stay with me forever.
“I look forward to the next chapter, where I am fully focussed on taking my next step into coaching.”
At club level, Keogh spent seven years at Derby County and most recently was at Forest Green Rovers.
He also counts Stoke City, Bristol City, Carlisle United, Coventry City, MK Dons, Blackpool, Ipswich Town and Wycombe Wanderers.