Overly criticised and under appreciated: Glenn Whelan calls time on long and successful career

The Ireland man was often the target of criticism but can reflect on a 21-year professional tenure.

Glenn Whelan celebrates after scoring his side's goal against Italy at Croke Park.  Picture: Sportsfile

We’ve had to wait six years to discover whether Roy Keane’s take on Glenn Whelan would be prophetic.

As the veteran finally wound up his 21-year professional career over the weekend at the age of 39, the words of Keane resonated.