Former Irish soccer international Niall Quinn said he felt surprised and humbled to receive an honorary MBE at a ceremony at the British Ambassador's residence in Dublin earlier today.
The award was made in recognition of the retired player's "outstanding services to international football and his contributions to United Kingdom charities".
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Former international soccer striker Niall Quinn receives a kiss from his wife Gillian after receiving an honourary MBE, today at the British Embassy in Dublin.
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At the presentation, the soccer star was described as "an ambassador for football".
After receiving the award, he said: "I was very surprised and very humbled really.
"It coincided with my move back to Ireland. I'd had such a good time in the UK. It was a smashing end to almost 20 years there."
He said the award capped off a wonderful life he had led in England.
The British ambassador to Ireland, His Excellency Stewart Eldon, formally presented the award at his Dublin residence.
The ambassador said: "I was delighted to be able to present this award to Niall Quinn.
"It has been said that sportsmen don't build character - they reveal it.
"Today, we congratulate a sportsman widely admired throughout these islands whose character and achievements are a real example to us all." PA