Hero Healy says farewell

Hero Healy says farewell

4 December 2013

KILLYLEAGH’S David Healy has called time on a glittering football career at the age of 34.

Northern Ireland’s record-breaking goalscorer has decided to hang up the boots after giving up a long-standing battle with injury problems.

Healy has achieved legendary status with Northern Ireland after notching up 36 goals in 95 games.

“I am announcing my immediate retirement as a player from professional football,” he said this week. “After a playing career, of some 18 years, the point has come for me to move on to a new challenge.

Healy cruised past Colin Clarke’s 13-goal tally making him not only Northern Ireland’s greatest scorer, but their second-most capped player after Pat Jennings, who played 119 times.

His two most memorable nights at Windsor Park guaranteed him a lasting place in the affections of Northern Ireland football fans.

He scored the goal to beat England in a World Cup qualifier in 2005. Twelve months later, he helped himself to a hat-trick in an unforgettable 3-2 win over star-studded Spain.

His club career took him to Preston North End, Leeds United, Sunderland, Fulham, Rangers, Bury and, most famously, Manchester United.

It was announced yesterday that Healy will be honoured by the IFA during Northern Ireland’s first European Championship qualifier at Windsor Park next year.

Healy said he had many memorable moments during his career — most of them with Northern Ireland.

“So a huge thank you to all my team mates over the years.”

“To the Green and White Army, who have sang my name win or lose, goals or no goals, travelled to countries, some of which I don’t think either I or they could even spell, my heart felt thanks and respect to you all. I will see you in the Kop End.”