Rangers: Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill shares thoughts on possible Steven Davis retirement

Davis, who turns 39 in January, has been sidelined since last December after suffering a double ACL tear

This week, on November 15, Rangers TV, the former star player for Southampton and Fulham revealed that he is not sure if he would be able to play again.

The manager of Northern Ireland, O’Neill, hopes that won’t be the case because he wants to see his captain receive an honourable farewell at some point.

He reportedly said, “It’s nice to go out with something to remember, and Steven Davis certainly deserves that,” according to the Belfast Telegraph [November 17].

“It is rightful for a player who has earned more than 100 caps to get the chance to play, even if it is their final night or something else entirely.

“Hopefully Steven can reach a position where he can make that happen.

“It would be extremely tragic if an injury sustained during practise led to the end of such a fantastic career.

“I am aware of his intense focus to ensure that isn’t the case.”

Try your hardest.

Davis must decide what is best for him first and foremost.

He hinted in his interview with Rangers TV that ensuring he can walk normally for the remainder of his life is his top focus right now.

Given that he turns 39 in January and has several months before making a comeback, should he chooses that path, Davis’ Ibrox career is undoubtedly done as a player.

It is more likely that he will continue his career in another capacity or accept Rangers’ offer of a coaching position alongside Philippe Clement.

With an incredible 140 caps for Northern Ireland, the midfielder has been an excellent servant for both the Gers and his country.

He now holds the record for the most caps earned by a British player, but will he get more opportunities to play?

Fingers crossed that Davis can step up his rehabilitation programme over the coming weeks and make a decision on his own terms, rather than being forced to call it a day.