Kildare legend Eamonn Callaghan has announced that he is retiring from the intercounty game following the conclusion of the Lilywhites’ season last weekend.
Confirming the news via Twitter on Saturday afternoon, the Naas clubman thanked his family, his wife Eadaoin, and his young son Fionn for their support throughout his lengthy career.
Callaghan was used mainly as an impact substitute this year under Cian O’Neill, his highlight being an important late score that helped Kildare to victory over Mayo in the All-Ireland Qualifiers.
The 35-year-old was part of the Irish International Rules panel in 2011 that beat Australia, while his career with Kildare saw him feature in four Leinster finals and an All-Ireland semi-final.
The veteran made his debut for Kildare in 2002 under Mick O’Dwyer, and he was a constant in the panel during numerous different management regimes.
In a statement today, Callaghan said;
“It is with a heavy heart that my time has come to call it a day with the Kildare senior footballers.
“I’ve been very fortunate to have had such a lengthy career representing my county, getting the opportunity to captain Kildare in that time, represent my country and create memories of a lifetime.
“I would like to thank all the managers and backroom teams who have guided me over the last 17 years.
“It has been an absolute privilege and a dream come true to have played alongside some of the best footballers in the country.
Time for the next chapter ⚪️ pic.twitter.com/lxJ5DaT2DO
— Eamonn Callaghan (@leperleper) August 11, 2018
“I will miss the craic with the lads but I’m grateful to have shared a dressing room with them over the years and for the close friends I have made in that time.
“I would like to thank the passionate Kildare supporters for all their loyalty over the years, it was an honour to put on the white jersey to represent you and the support you give the team is always appreciated.
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