Callaghan steps down as Northern Ireland captain

Marissa Callaghan has captained Northern Ireland in 52 of her 89 caps

Marissa Callaghan has stepped away from her position as Northern Ireland captain.

The midfielder, 38, has led Northern Ireland on 52 occasions and skippered the side at the Euro 2022 finals - the country's first major women's tournament.

Callaghan said the decision to stand down from the role was "not taken lightly".

The Cliftonville midfielder added that she intends to continue representing Northern Ireland and add to her 89 caps.

"I truly believe this is the best decision for not only myself but more importantly the squad," Callaghan added.

“Leading this team for the past eight years has been an absolute honour and privilege. I am so proud of what we have achieved together, we have changed the face of women's football in Northern Ireland forever.”

“It’s now time for one of my team-mates to take on the role, make it their own and I’m so excited to see where the next eight years takes us.”

Northern Ireland manager Tanya Oxtoby said she had discussed the captaincy with Callaghan "at length".

"I fully support her decision," the Australian said. "This team has had some truly memorable moments under her captaincy.”

Who could take over as captain? - Analysis

Marissa Callaghan captained Northern Ireland throughout the most successful period in the country's history

Marissa Callaghan has been the face of women's football in Northern Ireland throughout the most successful period in the team's history.

Her standing in the game is up there with the legends of NI football - in both the men's and women's game.

Leading Northern Ireland at Euro 2022, having battled to make the tournament after an injury scare, was a monumental achievement and she has inspired not only her players, but the next generation.

Callaghan may no longer be captain but she will still have plenty to offer the team and squad as a leader, but now attention will turn as to who will wear the armband for May's fixtures with Portugal and beyond.

Southampton defender Laura Rafferty will be one of the frontrunners after being handed the armband on a number of occasions in Callaghan's absence.

"I feel like Raff and Marissa complement each other really well, with their leadership styles and what they bring to the group," Oxtoby said in April.

"We have got so many leaders in this group. To have Raff lead from the back when Marissa is not on the pitch, it's just a natural thing for me."

Northern Ireland are not short of leaders with Simone Magill, Lauren Wade, Demi Vance, Nadene Caldwell, Rachel Furness and the injured Sarah McFadden all having more than 50 caps.

There are a number of exciting young players coming through, with 22-year-old Glentoran midfielder Joely Andrews tipped to be a Northern Ireland captain in the future.

It worked for the Republic of Ireland and Katie McCabe, who was handed the armband at 21, so could Oxtoby be tempted to take a similar approach?