NEIL Etheridge announced his retirement from international football on his Instagram account on Monday night, drawing tributes from former teammates and fans.
Etheridge played in 82 caps for 18 years with the national squad, including the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup where the then-Azkals came away with a landmark 2-0 win over host Vietnam that sparked popularity in the sport.
The Azkals captain was also part of the team that qualified in the 2018 AFC Asian Cup, a first for the country.
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“At the age of 18, I made my decision to play for the Philippines, qualified for the first time ever in the Asian Cup for the country. First Filipino player to ever play in the Premier League. I made some amazing friends along the way and met some great people. Memories that will last with me forever,” wrote Etheridge.
Former Azkals striker Phil Younghusband, Stephan Schrock, and Filipinas goalkeeper led the tributes to Etheridge.
“It was a privilege to play alongside you representing the Philippines. So many battles, laughs, and unforgettable moments together,” wrote Younghusband.
“You gave everything for the short and that deserves massive respect. Enjoy retirement from international football, you’ve earned it.”
“Legend,” wrote Schrock.
“One of the first people to congratulate me on World Cup qualification four years ago. Someone I will always look up to,” McDaniel said.
Other players such as Daisuke Sato, Jarvey Gayoso, and Zico Bailey also called Etheridge as “my captain.”
Etheridge retired from international duties two years since his last match with the national team back in the September 2024 window when the Philippines played in the Merdeka Tournament in Kuala Lumpur.
In between that time, however, Etheridge never got a call-up again.
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