Wigan - Kilbane sets date for retirement

Wigan Athletic left sided player Kevin Kilbane has decided to retire from international football at the end of next season and miss out on the chance to win 100 caps for the Republic of Ireland.

Kilbane at the moment is on 87 caps and there are 8 games planned for the Republic between now and next June when he intends to call it a day.

The 31 year old told the Wigan Observer:

"A lot of people know my situation; its tough being away from the wife and kids, the big thing from my point of view is they have got to come first"

"I know its part and parcel of the job and my wife has been nothing but supportive but there comes a time when you think 'give the youngsters a chance` they are going to get more games than me anyways"

Killer pulled out of the two week end of season training squad with a back injury and wont feature in the Republics game against Columbia at Craven Cottage on Thursday, he said:

"It would have been difficult being away for that length of time over the summer when I should really be on a break with my family"

Killer is a really nice guy and he was a revelation last season for the Latics 'filling in` at left back, good luck Killer and enjoy your last season as an international

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