Republic of Ireland defender Steve Finnan today announced his retirement from international football.

The 31-year-old Liverpool player told his club's official website that it was "the right time for me to step down".

Finnan made his debut against Greece in April 2000 and went on to make 50 appearances for his country.

He said: "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Republic team, with the World Cup in 2002 being the highlight of my international career.

"But I'll be 34 when the next tournament comes around so it's the right timefor me to step down.

"There will be a new manager coming in soon who will have his own ideas for the future with younger players having the chance to stake their claim to be in his plans."