Ireland's Kelly calls it quits

In good form
Kelly informed Irish coach Brian Kerr of his decision this week, as he bids to build on the good form he has shown since Peter Reid became Leeds manager earlier this year.

Competition for places
The Republic are well stocked for right-backs, with Stephen Carr and Steve Finnan both having occupied that position in recent seasons, but Kerr admitted he was "disappointed" to lose Kelly.

Kerr 'disappointed'
"I am disappointed by Gary Kelly's decision," he said. "It was unfortunate that I did not have the opportunity to work with the player during my nine months in charge. Gary was unavailable to me because of all his injuries."

World Cup experience
The 29-year-old Kelly represented his country at two FIFA World Cups, in 1994 and 2002 - when Kerr's predecessor Mick McCarthy used him in a right-midfield berth. In all, the Leeds captain won 52 caps and scored two goals in an international career spanning eight years.