McIlroy shocked by Horlock decision
Friday, 28 March 2003 09:52Sammy McIlroy has spoken of his shock at Kevin Horlock's decision to retire from the Northern Ireland set-up. The Manchester City midfielder decided to call it a day ahead of the Euro 2004 qualifier against Armenia tomorrow and is the third senior midfield player to retire with Jim Magilton and Neil Lennon also bowing out of international football.
McIlroy said: "Kevin told me on Tuesday night he was considering retiring and it is a big shock. But I think it's been brewing on his mind for a while. His wife is pregnant and he has a young family. After losing Magilton and then Lennon, for Kevin to retire as well is a big blow but at the end of the day you have just got to get on with the job. It will be good experience for the young boys."
McIlroy gave the squad a long lie-in this morning after a five-and-a-half hour flight from Belfast. They are due to have a training session later on today. McIlroy said: "Despite the setbacks we are all in good spirits and looking forward to the game."
Filed by Johnny Proby
