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Trio of Irish players delay retirement decision

Republic of Ireland veterans Shay Given, Damien Duff and Richard Dunne will not make any snap decisions over their international future after the Irish crashed out Euro 2012 with three defeats. Keeper Given, who made a record 125th Ireland appearance against Italy, said: "It's too soon straight after the game to make any rash decisions.

"I'll sit down with my kids and my wife and my family when I get home and just see what the best plan of action is.

"Obviously, we've got a new manager in at Aston Villa - I'd like to speak to him as well - and see what the best plan is for everyone."

Fulham winger Duff made his 100th appearance during the tournament and will also take his time.

"I've said I'll play until 100 for Ireland if they'd have me," said the 33-year-old. "Sometimes, it doesn't work like that. So we'll see.

"It's more important to talk about the team and how we've done over the past month. Obviously disappointing - weren't good enough."

Aston Villa defender Dunne added: "It's very hard because we've been preparing for this and dreaming. You don't want to be thinking about the finish.

"As soon as this comes around, you want to play and concentrate on this.

"Now probably is the time for whoever has thought about it to have a month away and make a decision in a month's time maybe.

"You've just been hammered three times and you're probably just sick of football at the moment.

"You just want to go away and think about it and start again in July and, as far as this is concerned, see what happens."

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