Ireland legend Niall Quinn retires from football

Former Republic of Ireland star Niall Quinn announced his retirement from football this afternoon.

Former Republic of Ireland star Niall Quinn announced his retirement from football this afternoon.

The Sunderland striker (36) has been troubled by a persistent back injury and made the announcement at half-time in the club's league game against Tottenham at the Stadium of Light.

Quinn, who played 91 times for the Republic of Ireland,began his career at Arsenal and has been at Sunderland for six years after previously playing for Manchester City.

He retired from the international scene after the World Cup finals in Japan and Korea.

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He last played for Sunderland when coming on as a substitute in their 1-0 defeat to West Ham three weeks ago.