Ireland's Keith O'Neill retires from football

Coventry and Republic of Ireland midfielder Keith O'Neill has announced his retirement due to a prolonged back injury and will…

Coventry and Republic of Ireland midfielder Keith O'Neill has announced his retirement due to a prolonged back injury and will leave Highfield Road immediately.

The 27-year-old former Norwich and Middlesbrough player made his last appearance as a substitute in August's 3-1 home defeat to Nottingham Forest, his first game since mid-December, before breaking down after just seven minutes.

He said: "As you can imagine, I feel robbed of my best footballing years but I have been lucky enough to live out a dream for the last 10. I've also been fortunate enough to work alongside the world's best players and managers, that's been a great honour.

"Finally, I retire content that I have had the opportunity to play football for the greatest nation in the world."

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O'Neill made 13 appearances for the Republic of Ireland senior team between 1996 and 1999, scoring four goals.