Duff happy in retirement
The Fulham winger halted a decorated 14-year career in an Irish shirt after winning his 100th cap against Italy at Euro 2012.
Speaking yesterday at Craven Cottage, while sharing the excitement of Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane’s appointment, the 35-year-old insisted club football – concluding with a League of Ireland stint – will consume the remainder of his career.
“Martin and Roy are two absolutely massive names — possibly Roy is even bigger than the manager which is a bit bizarre,” Duff told Newstalk.
“It’s an exciting period in Irish football but, at the same time, the proper games don’t come until September. They’ll happen thick and fast so that’s when they can be judged.
“I can’t say I miss international football. I certainly didn’t miss it when Ireland played Germany at home [the 6-1 defeat].
“I wouldn’t say that I even watch the internationals anymore because they usually play at the same time I’m putting the kids to bed.
“It was one million per cent the right decision. There was no great reason, not even my body packing in because I still feel as good as ever.”
It is while trying to maintain that tip-top condition six weeks ago that Duff inadvertently ruled himself out of action for the rest of the season.
He explains: “We’d been given four days off but, with me being an honest professional, I went in to do some extra training on my own and ended up injuring my knee.
“It’s unfortunate because we’ve all these important games coming up.
“I’d like to be out there helping the lads but it’s not meant to be.”
Another defeat for basement side Cottagers yesterday plunged them further towards the drop with just six games to go. Watching compatriot Seamus Coleman doing the damage for Everton was another indicator as to why Duff rates him as the best right-back in the Premier League.
“I think he’s amazing,” gushed the Dubliner.
“His Ireland debut was long overdue him and he should double the amount of caps by now.
“When I’ve played against him, it should have been me doing the attacking, but I ended up defending through the game chasing after him. Everton will do well to keep hold of him this summer.”
Although Duff will likely part ways with the Fulham in the summer, he’s no intention of fading away into retirement.
He said: “Coming to Fulham from Newcastle was a real breath of fresh air so, after five brilliant years, it’s heartbreaking to see the way it’s gone on this season.
“Nothing has gone right on or off the pitch but we still have the game to put it right.
“I’m not planning to hang up my boots anytime soon. I’ve an awful lot more left in the tank but I’ve got to get back fit first.
“It’s definitely on my list to play in the League of Ireland. I plan to move back home to raise my children in Ireland because I want them to see their family every day.”
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