John Small retires from inter-county action

Dublin's John Small has retired from inter-county action.  Photo by David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
Dublin's John Small has retired from senior inter-county football.

During a glittering career with Dublin, the Ballymun Kickhams clubman won seven All-Ireland SFC medals.

"Representing the Dublin senior football team has been the greatest privilege of my life," Small said in a statement released on Thursday.

"It gave me memories and friendships that I'll carry with me forever. They truly were the best days of my life.

"I’ve been so lucky to have incredible people around me throughout this journey - my family, my partner Jade, my son Charlie, my friends, my club, Jim (Gavin) and Dessie (Farrell) along with their coaching teams, my team-mates, and the amazing Dublin supporters who have always stood behind us.

"But above everyone else, I want to acknowledge my Mam, Andrea, and my late Dad, Declan. They gave me the chance to live my dream and supported me every step of the way. I wouldn’t have achieved any of this without them.

"To (new manager) Ger Brennan and his management team, I wish you nothing but success in 2026. I’ll be watching on from the stands with pride.

"Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey. It’s meant everything to me."