I’m determined to make sure I’m not part of Michael O’Neill’s NI clear-out, states Conor Washington
Conor Washington has no plans to retire from Northern Ireland duty
Striker Conor Washington is targeting the 50-cap milestone for Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland's Conor Washington helps Josh Magennis to his feet during the defeat to Slovakia
Conor Washington has revealed that he has no plans to retire from international football at the end of the Euro 2024 qualifiers, insisting he has set his sights on reaching 50 caps and enjoying more magical memories with Northern Ireland.
Ahead of the Euro 2024 double-header against Slovenia and Kazakhstan, Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill admitted he would have a big decision to make when this campaign finished in regards to the players he selects moving forward, pointing out that qualifying for the 2026 World Cup does not begin until March 2025.
With Northern Ireland’s hopes of making it to next year’s Euro Finals in Germany all but over after Thursday’s disappointing 4-2 defeat in Slovenia, what happens in the future has come into sharper focus.
Younger players are chomping at the bit to become established senior stars, and O’Neill appreciates he has a call to make on Euro 2016 heroes such as Jonny Evans, Craig Cathcart, Josh Magennis and Washington, who are in his squad at present, and others who are 30-plus.
Washington (31) is determined to be part of O’Neill’s plans down the line.
“I’ve said to Michael I don’t see myself retiring from international football,” stated Washington ahead of tomorrow’s game in Kazakhstan.
“He can retire me if he likes, stop picking me sort of thing, but Northern Ireland has given me some great memories, probably the best of my football career, and I think it would be remiss of me to call quits on that.
“I have 38 caps now, so 50 is the goal
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