Clare defender Paul Flanagan has announced his retirement from inter-county hurling.

The 32-year-old won two All-Ireland senior titles with the Banner County along with two National League crowns, having made his debut in 2014.

Captain of Clare’s All-Ireland U21 winning side in 2013, Flanagan would be hampered by injuries and would have to wait until 2020 before his first senior championship start against Laois in the All-Ireland SHC qualifiers.

2022 saw him nominated for an All-Star award, although this past season saw his time limited on the playing field for Brian Lohan’s side, featuring against Limerick and Cork in the Munster SHC as Adam Hogan and Conor Leen started as the regular corner-backs for Clare in route to their All-Ireland triumph in July.

"It has been the honour of my life. Thank you for the support and opportunity along the way," Flanagan said in a message posted by Clare GAA on social media.

Clare GAA posted: "We wish Paul all the best in his retirement. He has been a fantastic player, leader, ambassador, and team-mate throughout his 11-year senior career in saffron and blue.

"Anyone who has shared a dressing room with Paul will attest that he has embodied all a Clare supporter could wish for in a hurler. We thank him sincerely for his dedication and commitment in addition to the wonderful days of hurling he has delivered.

"All in Clare GAA congratulate Paul as one of our most decorated players in terms of silverware and wish him continued success with his club Ballyea and in all aspects of his future."

Clare and Ballyea defender Paul Flanagan has today announced his retirement from inter county hurling . Congratulations to Paul on his legacy and an exemplary career with Clare and thanks to him for all the countless memories and tenacious performances he gave us in Saffron and… pic.twitter.com/aBUdnAEg8j

— Clare Gaa (@GaaClare) September 27, 2024

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