Northern Ireland captain Jonny Evans has retired from international football with immediate effect.

Only three men and two women – Steven Davis, Julie Nelson, Pat Jennings, Ashley Hutton and Aaron Hughes – have played more times for the country than the Manchester United defender.

The 36-year-old, who in 2023 was awarded an MBE for services to football in Northern Ireland, won the last of 107 caps against Spain in June.

In a statement, Evans said he feels now is the right time to bring the curtain down on his international career after “much thought and consideration”, adding that playing for Northern Ireland has been a “privilege”.

More to follow.