Glenn’s farewell

GLENN WHELAN will lead Republic of Ireland out against Northern Ireland at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium tonight knowing his 85th cap is likely to be his last.

The 34-year-old Aston Villa midfielder, who last pulled on a green shirt 12 months ago, said: “The manager (Martin O’Neill) has tried to bed new lads in and that’s the way Ireland are going.

“I’m more than happy with that – these lads have waited a long time and they need to get some caps under their belt.

“Looking at the next couple of years, hopefully we do qualify (for Euro 2020), but I’d be 36 or 37.

“Retirement, as in putting it down on paper, I’d never do that. But I know tomorrow is probably going to be the last time I play for Ireland.”

Northern Ireland captain Steven Davis is expecting an intense encounter, even though it is a friendly.

He said: “The players are very familiar with each other and it’s like playing any of the home nations – there’ll be that edge to the game.”