Kerry star Paul Galvin has retired from inter-county football. The announcement ends an inter-county career that spanned 11 seasons and saw Galvin win 4 All-Ireland titles, 3 National League titles and 3 All Stars. He was named Footballer of the Year in 2009.

Kerry manager Eamonn Fitzmaurice delivered the shock announcement last night after Kerry’s defeat to Dublin in their opening Allianz League fixture, at Croke Park.

Galvin released a statement on his website, saying:

“I would like to sincerely thank the Kerry County Board and Kerry Group for their support over the years, the 4 managers I played under for placing their faith in me, my family, and of course, the proud Kerry supporters who demanded our best at all times. There were days when you played with us too.

“More importantly I want to thank all my team-mates for your heart and friendship over the years. Standing my ground with you in the Kerry jersey was my privilege. I learned more from you than anyone and I am grateful for the opportunity I got to play with some of the best players to ever play the game.

“Having discussed it with the management during the week we felt it best to announce it after tonight’s game.

“Finally I want to thank Eamon and wish him, the management team and my brothers on the Kerry team the very best luck for 2014.

“I am proud to say I won All Irelands for Kerry and I am satisfied that I gave the cause everything I had in me.”