‘Delighted’ Birchall set for International swansong
Chris Birchall is back in Trinidad and Tobago to play one final game for his country as he ends his International career this week.
I could not be happier to be coming back to say goodbye and have this farewell game in front of the T&T fans…
Birchall announced his retirement from International football earlier this season, but in a gesture of support for Birchall’s service to his country, the Vale midfielder has been invited back to play in an International friendly game against Jamaica on Tuesday November 19th. The invitation to Birchall is a way of allowing the T&T fans to show their appreciation for him and his eight year International career. Fellow T&T International Carlos Edwards is also expected to play his final appearance for his country during the game.
“I’m obviously delighted to be invited back for the Jamaica game. I’m honoured that the coach Stephen Hart and the association have put thought into my career and I’m glad that he (Hart) feels it would fitting for me to say goodbye to the general public and everyone associated with Trinidad and Tobago football since I started eight years ago,” Birchall told TTFA Media on Sunday.
“I could not be happier to be coming back to say goodbye and have this farewell game in front of the T&T fans. They have been absolutely tremendous with me throughout my international career and have supported me from day one through the great times and the dark times and I’m excited to play one last game for them and especially the derby in which I’ve always wanted to play in against Jamaica,” added Birchall.
Birchall is Port Vale’s all-time record International appearance maker. This final game would make it 27 appearances while a Vale player and so far he has scored three times for his country, while on Port Vale’s books.