'I led decision to step down as NI captain' - Callaghan

Callaghan captained Northern Ireland in 52 out of her 89 caps for her country

Cliftonville midfielder Marissa Callaghan said that she led the decision to step down as Northern Ireland captain.

The 38-year-old announced last week that she would be relinquishing the armband after eight years and 52 games as captain.

She captained Northern Ireland through the most successful period in the history of the women’s team, including at the Euro 2022 finals in Southampton.

"I led that [decision]," she told BBC Sport NI. "I asked to meet Tanya [Oxtoby, Northern Ireland's manager] for a coffee, she was over with the Uefa A License crew last week and we had a really good chat.

"It was something I had been thinking about for the last few months and I just think it is time for someone else to take the armband and really push us on to the next level."

'We have great leaders in the team'

Callaghan featured in Northern Ireland's opening Euro 2025 qualifier, a goalless draw against Malta

Callaghan was speaking at the Ulster Football Awards on Tuesday night, where she was crowned Women's Player of the Year after netting 20 goals as Cliftonville won the League Cup and County Antrim Cup.

She reiterated her desire to continue representing Northern Ireland and add to her 89 caps as Oxtoby's side prepare for a double-header against Portugal in Euro 2025 qualifying.

Northern Ireland play the group leaders in Leiria on 31 May before hosting the reverse fixture at Mourneview Park on 4 June.

"I had an amazing eight years wearing the armband, but I am still going to be me and a leader on and off the pitch. I just really think it is time for someone else to step up and shine.

"They will get amazing opportunities and I truly believe that we have great leaders in the team, and great young leaders, and that whoever Tanya chooses will take the team onto another level."

The midfielder said she felt the time was right to step down from the role as she opened up about a tough few months in her life off the pitch.

"Personally, a lot of things have been happening, with work, playing and my young family. I actually lost my nephew at the end of last year and it has been a difficult time so I thought it was the best time to pass it on so I can just concentrate on playing," she explained.

"My focus is solely on being the best player I can be for both Cliftonville and Northern Ireland and that won't change.

"We play Portugal home and away in a few weeks and I am excited to get in [to camp] and get going."