By Paul Holmes
June 26 2002

Ipswich Town midfielder Jim Magilton has retired from international football in order to spend more time with his family. Just last month Magilton withdrew from a friendly match between N.Ireland and Spain due to his son's poor health. The 33-year-old has 52 caps and 5 goals.

Speaking to the Ipswich official website Magilton told of his decision.

"Myself and my family have given the matter a lot of thought.

"Given the circumstances we find ourselves in, the only conclusion I can come to is that the time has come for me to announce my retirement from international football.

"It is a decision I never wanted to make because playing for Northern Ireland has brought me a lot of pleasure and enjoyment over the years.

"I have always given it my full commitment but now though I feel that I can't give it my full concentration.

"Without that I think it is right that I should let Sammy McIlroy bring in a younger man to take on my role.

"The European Championship qualifiers are now the priority for Sammy and his squad.

"I think it is important for him to have every player fully focused on that and with my future at my club uncertain and my son's illness I can't give that focus.

"Sammy brought me back in from the cold and gave me back my international status and I will always be grateful to him for that.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank him and his staff for the last two years and for the support he has given me in the last couple of months.

"I wish them every success in the coming campaign and they can rest assured that I will be cheering them on in every game," added Magilton.