Northern Ireland teammates have led the tributes for Ashley Hutton who announced her retirement after Friday night’s Euro 2022 defeat to England.
Hutton, who made her international debut in 2005, made her 115th and final appearance in green as a late substitute for Julie Nelson at the St Mary’s Stadium.
The 34-year-old, who plays for Linfield ladies, was part of Kenny Shiels' squad having only recently returned from a lengthy lay-off after suffering an ACL injury last year.
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Confirming her retirement after the final Group A game in Southampton, the experienced defender said: “It’s been 18 long years and I’ve enjoyed every single moment of it.
“It was just a great feeling to put on the Northern Ireland jersey. I had my family, partner, friends and the fans here so there was no better way to bow out.”
Northern Ireland midfielder Chloe McCarron described Hutton as a “legend” while striker Simone Magill, whose tournament was ended by a knee injury sustained in the opening pool game with Norway, tweeted: “One of the best.”
Former Northern Ireland captain Sara Booth, now head of women’s football competitions with FIFA, also took to social media to thank Hutton for her contribution to football here.
She tweeted: “Such a wonderful ambassador for women’s football in NI. Well done on an outstanding career, Ashley. We will miss you.”
The Irish FA wrote: “What an inspiration. Thank you, Ashley”, while broadcaster Denise Watson tweeted: “What an amazing career. Such a servant to Northern Ireland.”
The official UEFA Women's Euro 2022 Twitter account also offered the tournament's congratulations on "an incredible career".
Hutton played a key role in Northern Ireland’s journey to the Euros, her stoppage time equaliser against Wales in Newport helping secure a play-off for the finals.
Kenny Shiels and his players went on to seal their country’s first ever appearance at a major finals, bowing out after defeats to Norway, Austria and England in what was a tough group.
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