Richard Dunne has announced his retirement from international football.

The QPR defender won 80 caps and scored eight goals during his Ireland career and last played in the green shirt against Kazakhstan in October. 

In a statement, the 34-year-old said: "Retiring from international football has been an extremely difficult decision for me to make. I have represented Ireland since I was 15 years of age, and have thoroughly enjoyed all the highs and lows that have come with playing for my country. I will continue to support the team as they embark upon their new campaign under Martin O’Neill, and have every faith that they will qualify for France 2016."

Dunne was an integral member of the team that helped Ireland qualify for Euro 2012, famously performing heroics against Russia in Moscow during the qualifying campaign.

Ireland manager Martin O'Neill said: "Richard has been a remarkable player for both club and country. I had the pleasure of working with him at Aston Villa, where he had a big influence on the field. He has consistently given 100 per cent every time he has been called on by his country also. I wish him all the best in his club career."

Richard Dunne has announced his retirement from International football with 80 caps & 8 goals #Number5 #IrishLegend pic.twitter.com/gGRnJEqIT0

— FAI (@FAIreland) July 31, 2014