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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Vincent Whelan

Former Ireland striker Andy Keogh announces he will retire at the end of A-League season

Former Ireland striker Andy Keogh has announced his intention to hang up his boots at the end of the A-League season Down Under.

Now 35, the veteran forward has endured an injury-plagued campaign with the Perth Glory having only made 10 appearances and not gotten off the mark on the scoring charts.

The Dubliner started his career at Leeds United and also featured at Wolverhampton Wanderers in what was a nomadic journey across 12 clubs in England, Wales, India, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and Australia.

It was in Oz that he enjoyed his greatest success as he is the A-League's record goalscorer and appearance maker having notched 59 times in his 155 games over three separate stints with the Aussie outfit.

He reflected on his footballing journey which led to him establishing his new home Down Under in his retirement statement.

He said: "It's with a heavy but full heart that I am announcing my retirement from professional football at the end of this season.

"The decision has been a difficult one, but the reality is my body has told me that it's time.

"I've loved every minute of playing for this club and living in this city which is now my home.

"I'll never forget scoring goals at The Shed end and jumping into the crowd.

"My focus now will be on helping this great club achieve sustained success as I transition into a new role within it."

After netting against Germany (©INPHO/Donall Farmer)

Keogh picked out his 30 international caps as the greatest honour of his career.

“It was all I ever dreamed of when I was growing up. To achieve it leaves me very content.

“People say you have to sacrifice a lot in football, but I don’t believe that.

“But without the sacrifice of my wife and children it wouldn’t have been possible. I cannot thank them enough. They made the real sacrifice.”

Glory owner and chairman Tony Sage added: "Andy's contribution to this club has been extraordinary and his place among the pantheon of Glory greats is well and truly assured."

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