‘I always hoped this day would never come’ – Centurion Diane Caldwell announces retirement from international football

Ireland are still searching for a new manager a month out from the beginning of their Nations League B campaign but they must do so without Caldwell and Liverpool skipper Niamh Fahey, who drew the veil on her long career in green last week.

Caldwell first played for Ireland at Under-17 and U19 level before graduating to the women’s senior team in 2006 where she made her debut in an Algarve Cup game against Denmark.

A native of Balbriggan, Dublin, Caldwell scored four goals in total during her WNT career, the first of which came against Northern Ireland in March 2013 (she also scored against Greece, Montenegro and Georgia).

Caldwell was part of the WNT squad that made history by qualifying for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and she featured in the 0-0 draw with Nigeria in Brisbane.

In October 2023, Caldwell became the seventh member of the WNT Centurion Club when she made her 100th appearance in a 5-1 victory over Albania – leading the team out as captain in Tallaght Stadium.

Caldwell said: “I always hoped this day would never come. 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. 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 1 to 102, every one meant so much to me. Belting out Amhrán na bhFiann, arm in arm with my team-mates 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 team-mates 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.”

FAI Chief Football Officer Marc Canham said: “Diane deserves her place in Irish football history as someone who made a significant impact in an Ireland jersey. 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.”

FAI President Paul Cooke said: “On behalf of the Football Association of Ireland, I’d like to thank Diane for an amazing 18 years’ service representing Ireland. Diane’s passion for pulling on the Ireland jersey was clear to see in each of her 102 appearances and she has been a fantastic player during that period. We wish Diane well for the future and will honour her at an upcoming game.”

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