Michael Hughes has turned down the chance to join up with Northern Ireland’s World Cup squad, deciding instead to stay at Selhurst Park ahead of Palace’s crucial home game versus Middlesbrough on Saturday.
The Palace captain, who sat out his country’s match against England while completing a three-match suspension, was wanted by Northern Ireland manager Lawrie Sanchez for their qualifying game against Poland in Warsaw on Wednesday.
However, he has opted to stay behind and avoid any potential injuries ahead of a league match that could once again haul the Eagles out of the bottom three.
A few months ago, the 33-year-old midfielder made public his thoughts on possible retirement from international football. Following this move, it looks likely his decision has been made.