Laois defender Peter O'Leary has brought the curtain down on his inter-county career.

An All-Ireland minor medalist in 2003, the O'Dempseys clubman picked up a Leinster U-21 medal in 2006 and was called up to the O'Moore County senior squad later that year.

"I wish to announce my retirement from inter-county football," O'Leary says in a statement. "It has been a great honour for me to have been part of the Laois squad since making my senior debut in the O'Byrne Cup nine years ago.

"I was also privileged to be part of great Laois underage set-ups particularly the All-Ireland winning team of 2003.

"I believe the time is right for me now to move on from the county game but I will continue to play with my club O'Dempsey's until my legs run out.

"While always an enormous commitment, playing for Laois was a fantastic experience and I would like thank the many people who supported me during my career, particularly my family and friends.

"I would also like to thank the managers who gave me the opportunity to wear the Laois jersey; it is a special honour to represent your county and I will cherish that but I acknowledge the great support of the various back-room teams and the Co. Board.

"I have played with and against some truly outstanding footballers and knowing what it takes to play at this level I have nothing but the height of respect for them.

"Thanks to O'Dempsey's for their backing and understanding through the years and I am looking forward to spending my final playing days focussed on the club.

"I was always proud to be the Rep for the Gaelic Players Association and I'd like to thank the GPA for their support and look forward to remaining active with the players' body in the future.

"I would like to wish Tomás Ó Flatharta and the current Laois squad the very best of luck in the season ahead."

Best wishes to Peter O'Leary who today announced his retirement from intercounty football. pic.twitter.com/4AhWohAdwp

- Official Laois GAA (@CLGLaois) December 19, 2014

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