David Forde's international career ended on Tuesday night in the bowels the Joe Delaney Stand of Turner's Cross with his head held high.
The Millwall goalkeeper played the final 20 minutes, in the 2-1 loss to Belarus, hopeful of a spot on the plane to France. Sadly for the Galway goalkeeper, he was told that there was no room for him in the 23-man squad.
Fair play to David Forde who just stopped to sign a load of autographs minutes after being cut from the Euro squad. Tough night for him.
— Brendan O'Brien (@Rackob) May 31, 2016
Forde played in Ireland's first four games of Euro 2016 qualifying, including the memorable 1-1 draw with World Champions Germany in Gelsenkirchen. His performance in that game, was specifically mentioned by Martin O'Neill on Tuesday night, when speaking about the squad omissions.
The former Galway United and Derry City goalkeeper was dropped for the returning and surprisingly un-retired Shay Given ahead of the home game against Poland. After taking the number 1 jersey after Euro 2012 from Given, Forde was dropped to the bench as Ireland dropped points at home to Poland and Scotland.
Forde's nadir in Irish colours came when Shay Given left the field injured and was replaced by Darren Randolph in October. The presumptive back-up had become the back-up's back-up.
The Galway native would not play competitively for Ireland again, but he got to say his goodbyes in Cork, whether or not he even knew it at the time.
Nobody is denying the Forde's replacement, Keiren Westwood should be in the squad. His form for Sheffield Wednesday has been excellent. It's just a pity that Forde's Irish career ended in such disappointing circumstances.
24 international caps for a player who made his debut as a 31-year-old is not a bad return though.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
