Robbie Keane pays heartfelt tribute to ‘best mate’ Damien Duff

Ireland captain Robbie Keane summed up the feelings of most Republic of Ireland fans about the retirement of Damien Duff.

The 36-year-old announced his retirement from professional football on Monday, after a glittering career that included 100 Irish caps, two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and a League Cup.

Keane paid tribute to his former teammate in a Facebook post last night.

If you cannot see the embedded post check it out here.

“It's been an absolute pleasure playing with one of my best mates for so many years!” Keane wrote under a picture of the two.

“Duffer you will be truly missed! Best of of luck in the next chapter of your life!!

“Has to go down as one of the greatest we've ever produced.”

Keane’s is just the latest of hundreds of well wishes Duff received from fellow footballers and fans after the announcement.

Good luck to Damien Duff on his retirement , was a huge honor to have played next to him. 1 of the best players ever to come from Ireland

— Shay Given (@No1shaygiven) December 22, 2015

Best wishes to Damien Duff in his retirement... https://t.co/FgrnWrsGb6 pic.twitter.com/1PrgfgbbO6

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 22, 2015

Damien Duff v Spain in 02. Not sure every Irish winger combined has beaten their marker as often in the years since. https://t.co/RUGOJU8eKr

— Owen Cowzer (@OCowzer) December 21, 2015

He gave me an accidental whack and winded me, he came down to my house after to apologise. I was only 12 at the time. Top bloke.

— Pearse Corcoran (@pearsecorcoran) December 21, 2015