Footballer Neil Danns retires from international duty

After nearly nine years of service to Guyana’s Golden Jaguars, the senior national men’s football team, Neil Alexander Danns has announced his retirement from international football.
The Guyana international has over 500 career appearances to his name, and represents a potent force within our midfield. Neil Danns was recently part of the team in The Gold Cup Prelims, and was a member of the squad in 2019 at the Gold Cup, being the lone goal-scorer with 3 goals.
In his retirement speech, Danns said: “I am filled with a mixture of emotions —gratitude, nostalgia, and a touch of sadness. The time has come for me to bid farewell to my international football career, a journey that has been nothing short of extraordinary. It is an honour to share this moment with all of you: my friends, family, teammates, coaches, and supporters, who have been there for me every step of the way.
“Reflecting on my international career, I am overwhelmed with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Representing my country on the football pitch has been a dream come true, a privilege I have cherished with every fibre of my being. From the very first time I donned that national jersey, I knew I was part of something greater than myself — an opportunity to inspire, to unite, and to make a difference.”
He also said, “I am immensely grateful for the support I have received throughout my journey. To my teammates, thank you for the camaraderie, the countless battles fought together, and the bonds forged on and off the field. It has been an honour to stand shoulder-to- shoulder with you, striving for victory and celebrating the joys of the game. The memories we have created together will forever hold a special place in my heart.
“To the very first people that opened the door and played a pivotal part in this beautiful journey, I would like to give a special mention: Coach Jamaal Shabazz, Faizal Kahn, Chris Nurse, Mark Xavier and Captain Sam Cox. I owe a debt of gratitude that words alone cannot express. Your guidance, belief in my abilities, and unwavering faith have helped me to achieve and accomplish things I never seen as possible for myself on the international stage, and for this I’m forever grateful.
“You taught me invaluable lessons that extend far beyond the realm of football. Thank you for believing in me”.
Danns expressed his gratitude to the Guyanese public by stating, “I am eternally thankful. Your unwavering support, cheers and chants have fuelled my passion and inspired me to give my all on the field. Whether in moments of triumph or adversity, your presence and support, your unwavering dedication and love for the sport, have made every game an unforgettable experience.
“As I close this chapter of my life, I do so with a deep sense of satisfaction. I am proud of the milestones we achieved together, the victories we celebrated, and the incredible mark we left on the sport. But beyond the goals and accolades, it is the great moments that will forever stay with me — the roar of the crowd, the unity of the team, and the shared sense of purpose as we qualified for the 2019 Gold Cup for the first time in history. It was a true honour to score the first ever Gold Cup goal during the journey, a true moment that will sit right at the top of my footballing achievements.
“Although my international career may be coming to an end, my love for the game remains the same. Football has taught me invaluable lessons — about discipline, resilience, teamwork, and the power of a dream. As I venture into the next phase of my life, I carry these lessons with me, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities.
“To my team mates, aspiring footballers, and those who look up to me, I encourage you to chase your dreams relentlessly. Believe in your abilities, never shy away from hard work, and always cherish the journey; for it is in the pursuit of greatness that we discover our true potential.
“In conclusion, I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who have been a part of my international career. It is with a heavy heart that I bid farewell to the pitch that has been my home, my sanctuary, and my source of immeasurable joy. I am forever grateful for the memories we have shared and the legacy we have built.
Thank you all for your unwavering support, your belief in me, and for being an integral part of this remarkable journey. My international career may be over, but the impact it has had on my life and the lives of others will endure.
“With a heart full of gratitude, I say goodbye and embark on the next adventure that awaits.
“Thank you,”
Dannzy