Meath's attacking talisman Stephen Bray has retired from intercounty football.

The former All Star attacker (33) has informed manager Mick O'Dowd that he will not be available for selection in 2016.

The Navan O'Mahonys clubman was the last remaining All Star in the current Royal County set up, having been selected on the Team of the Year in 2007. He joined the Meath squad as an 18-year-old in 2000 and has consistently been one of the most dangerous attackers in the country during the ensuing 15 years.

"I've told Micko," he confirms in The Irish Daily Star. "My mind is made up. From last year, I kind of spoke to Micko that it was tough; the commitments outside of football were getting more demanding.

"That was firmly in my mind approaching even pre-season last year. I was going to give it one more shot - that helped spur me on.

"It is a natural progression. Unfortunately, that's it. You kind of cherish the years when you are a bit older."

Was a huge pleasure to play with brayer over the last 8 years, learned a lot off him. Be badly missed on and off the pitch. #oneofthegreats

- graham reilly (@ReillyGraham) September 29, 2015

Dream come through to play with stevie ,learnt so much off him and a true gent . What a player !! Will be missed big time. #inspiration

- Eamon Wallace (@EamonWallace94) September 29, 2015

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