Jonny Evans: Manchester United defender calls time on his international career

Evans made his first appearance for his country against the same opposition, starting the famous 3-2 victory against La Roja in 2006 during Lawrie Sanchez’s time in charge of the side.

The former Leicester City and West Bromwich Albion man would go on to become a key figure under Sanchez’s successor Nigel Worthington, as well as for Ian Baraclough and through both spells of current boss Michael O’Neill.

It was under the latter that Northern Ireland reached Euro 2016, their first major tournament in 30 years, where Evans played all four games as the side advanced to the last 16.

“Without doubt the highlight of my international career has been the Euros in France 2016, reaching a major tournament and representing our wee country was a dream come true,” added Evans.

O’Neill had told BBC Sport NI this month that he felt Evans still had “a huge amount to give Northern Ireland” but the centre-back will instead focus on his club career.

“Managing Jonny has been an absolute privilege. He is one of our greatest players as his 107 international caps clearly shows,” O’Neill said on Wednesday.

“Jonny always showed great leadership but also great humility and always looked out for the rest of the squad. He always loved playing for his country and we will miss his quality and presence in the games ahead.

“He has achieved so much in the game and our fans, like I do, will have many fond memories of him wearing the green and white shirt.”

Evans is in his second season back at Old Trafford, playing again at his boyhood club for whom he made his debut in 2007.

Having departed in 2015, he returned on a one-year deal last season which was extended for a further 12 months this summer.

Evans had intimated that he would likely have retired from all football had he not signed another contract with Erik ten Hag’s side for the 2024-25 campaign.