Denis Irwin is in no doubt that Roy Keane has done the right thing by retiring from international football.
Irwin, who played alongside Keane for the Republic of Ireland and Manchester United, said: "It's a major disappointment across the water because he's the best player for Ireland.
"But when a surgeon speaks you've got to listen. He has to get some rest, something has to give - and that's Ireland."
Irwin, who made more than 400 appearances for United prior to his switch to Nationwide Division One Wolves in the summer, continued on MUTV: "He's had a major operation and was out for four months. He needs to prepare for the games properly.
"Maybe it's too much for him the way he plays the game. He's not getting any younger - and I think he's come to the right decision.
"Roy had a cruciate operation four or five years ago, and now a hip injury. It's important to look after yourself.
"He's spoken to the surgeon who did the (hip) operation, his family and Sir Alex Ferguson - and he's made the right decision.
"Brian Kerr and the fans will accept that - the vast majority of people realise what he's done for Ireland, he did a hell of a lot to get them to the World Cup and although what happened in the summer was disappointing I'm sure it'll be forgotten and he'll be remembered for what he did for Ireland."
Irwin believes the Republic, under the new leadership of Kerr, can cope with the loss of their most influential player.
He continued: "He's spent 10 years playing for Ireland. There are players who've got a lot of potential - players like Damien Duff, Robbie Keane, Steve Finnan and John O'Shea. Ireland can go on from this." He believes the pace of the modern game means the trend set by Alan Shearer's decision to retire early from the international scene, and followed by Dominic Matteo and Keane, will become more common.
"Everyone enjoys the 90 minutes but it's the things around it that catch up with you, like the travelling - and nine times out of 10 when something has to give it will be your international career."
Irwin believes United will benefit from Keane's decision, adding: "United is the bread and butter. They pay his wages and he's got to look after them. "He's got a family of four and they need looking after as well. The international break will do him the world of good and give him time to rest and be ready for the next match - and the United punters will be well happy with that."