Ireland Players Have Been Posting Emotional Tributes To Martin O’Neill Online

Irish football is coming to terms with the somewhat expected news that Martin O'Neill has left his position as manager of the national side.

While it seems the decision has been welcomed by the majority of supporters, there's no denying that the Derryman gave us some memorable nights over the past five years and we've compiled the best of them here.

As the FAI begins its search for a new manager, O'Neill's former players have been sharing their thoughts online and the tributes paint a picture of a man who was still highly-respected in the dressing room.

As usual, James McClean didn't hold back by listing O'Neill's impressive achievements saying 'Gutted to see the gaffer gone.. qualifying for euros beating Germany, last 16 at the euros, beating Italy, within one game of qualifying for world cup being 4th seeds... aye bad record ???? thanks for everything gaffer'.

Striker Jon Walters, meanwhile, noted his surprise at the news saying 'I didn’t expect Martin to leave as manager. Although we’ve had a very difficult year in terms of results, I’ll balance that with the amount of players that have just started their international career. I would’ve been very confident in qualifying under Martin and still am with the group of players we have. On a personal note I have the upmost respect for Martin as he is and always has been fantastic for me.'

Occasional captain David Meyler added 'It’s been an incredible journey over the past 5 years. From the highs of Gelsenkirchen, Lille,Vienna to Cardiff. You’ve helped me and my teammates achieve things many thought we couldn’t.I’ll always be grateful to you for giving me the chance to represent my country. Thank you.'

It’s been an incredible journey over the past 5 years. From the highs of Gelsenkirchen, Lille,Vienna to Cardiff. You’ve helped me and my teammates achieve things many thought we couldn’t.I’ll always be grateful to you for giving me the chance to represent my country. Thank you ???????? pic.twitter.com/pITxaQICsr
— DM (@DavidMeyler) November 21, 2018

O'Neill himself has also issued a statement which can be read in full below via Off The Ball...

Martin O'Neill's statement on leaving the Republic of Ireland job. pic.twitter.com/zRQT7gKjwo
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) November 21, 2018

Now all we can do is wait and see who takes over with former manager Mick McCarthy currently the favourite. Regardless, here's hoping for a bright future for the Boys In Green.