Both veteran and incumbent members of the Philippine men’s national football team tipped their hats off to Filipino-German forward Patrick Reichelt after announcing his retirement from international duty.
Phil Younghusband, the country’s all-time scorer with 52 goals, applauded Reichelt for a colorful stint with the national team that included being part of the first Filipino squad to compete in the AFC Asian Cup in 2019 at the United Arab Emirates.
Reichelt ended his stint with the national team on a high note after beating Indonesia, 1-0, over the weekend and qualifying for the semifinals of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup.
The 36-year-old Reichelt ended his national team stint with 16 goals in 93 appearances that lasted from 2012 to 2024 to focus on his family.
“Well done mate on an amazing international career! Seeing you come through that injury early on and then go on to be such an important player for the team with some incredible goals of quality and importance, absolutely brilliant!” Younghusband said.
“Enjoy your time with the family, more rewarding times ahead. Congratulations!”
Reichelt and Younghusband were part of the Azkals squad that reached the semifinals of the Mitsubishi Electric Cup in 2018, the last time the Philippines had made it that far before this year.
Neil Etheridge also applauded Reichelt for his commitment to the national team after suiting up for 12 years.
“A friend, a brother, a legend. A player who has inspired many off the field and on it. Someone who’s loyalty to the country, this team is unwavering,” said Etheridge, who is currently playing for Buriram United FC in the Thai 1 League.
“It’s sad to see you hang them up but you will not be forgotten. Achieving in the shirt things that many can’t and many won’t. I have the upmost respect for you as a player and more importantly a person.”
“I wish you and your family nothing but love. Laban.”
