Longford legend Paul Barden has hung up the boots after 16 championship campaigns.

The gifted Clonguish clubman made his league debut back in 1998 and his first championship appearance arrived against Wexford 12 months later. He marked the occasion with 1-2 in a draw at New Ross.

Barden made 52 championship appearances in the Longford jersey and has Division 3 (2012), Division 4 (2011), O'Byrne Cup (2000) and Railway Cup (2001 and '02) medals to show for his efforts.

The 34-year-old - who also represented Ireland in the International Rules in 2002 and '06 - has struggled with injury in recent times.

"I'd love to give it another go but I don't know if I can," he said recently.

"I'll be listening to what the body is saying and talking to the people close to me before deciding what to do."

He added: "I have always regarded playing for my club and county as a huge honour.

"We haven't won a whole lot at county level, but the thrill of pulling on the Longford jersey remains as strong now as it was when I started."

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