Dublin's Paul Flynn announces intercounty retirement

Paul Flynn has called time on his Dublin career

Dublin footballer Paul Flynn has announced his inter-county retirement.

The Fingallians star, who enjoyed a glittered 12-year career in the blue jersey, has signalled that his time with the Sky Blues is over ahead of the summer.

Flynn won six All-Ireland titles, 10 Leinster Championships and four All-Star awards as he helped drive Dublin to unprecedented dominance in recent years.

"After 12 proud years wearing the Dublin jersey I have made the difficult decision to step away from the Dublin football panel," he said.

Flynn played his last game against Cavan in the Allianz League

"It's an enormous privilege to play for your county and I feel incredibly lucky and proud that I got to play for Dublin for as long as I have. Dublin football has played a huge part in my life and I will be forever grateful for all that it has given me.

"I was honoured to train and play alongside exceptional teammates week in week out, to have enjoyed the support of extraordinary managers over the years and to have had the support of dedicated, world class backroom teams. I'm grateful for all that they've taught me over the years and for the lifelong friendships that I made along the way. My football career started and ended with the support of my club, my family and my friends and to them I am eternally grateful.

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"Since my back surgery last year I've struggled to reach the fitness required for inter county and to reach the standards that I set for myself. While my heart says play on unfortunately my body says it's time to call it a day.

"I've loved every minute of my journey with Dublin football and to have played in front of its dedicated and passionate supporters has allowed me to make memories that I will cherish forever. I move on now with gratitude to the next chapter of my life."

Jim Gavin's side will now embark on the 'drive for five' without the experience of Flynn in the squad.

Sky Sports' live GAA coverage gets underway on Saturday, May 11 as Dublin face Kilkenny in the Leinster Hurling Championship opener. You can also stay up to date with all the action by following us @SkySportsGAA and get all the latest news, previews and interviews www.skysports.com/gaa