Brian Fenton paid tribute to his ex-Dublin team mate John Small following the latter’s announcement yesterday that he’s retiring from inter-county football.

Small was part of the Dubs’ six-in-a-row All-Ireland SFC winning side and also won 10 Leinster SFC titles, four Allianz League crowns and an All-Star award in his 11-year career with the capital men.

Posting on ‘X’ yesterday after learning of Small’s retirement, two-time Footballer of the Year Fenton described the Ballymun Kickhams clubman as: “The most underrated defender of our era. What a warrior and what a team mate. Kept the best forwards quiet, and always good for an anytime yellow.”

Meanwhile Dublin GAA simply posted: “A colossus, a warrior, a leader. John Small - a Dublin hero.”

The most underrated defender of our era. What a warrior and what a team mate. Kept the best forwards quiet, and always good for an anytime yellow 👀@JohnSmall6 https://t.co/PAF7hhzpEh

— Brian Fenton (@BrianFenton08) October 9, 2025

A colossus, a warrior, a leader.

John Small- a Dublin hero 💙 pic.twitter.com/zDOSND5J0V

— Dublin GAA (@DubGAAOfficial) October 9, 2025

Built of steel!!
Phenomenal career and service to Dublin @JohnSmall6
Congrats!! https://t.co/nzkRMF11Kb

— Bernard Brogan (@bernardbrogan) October 9, 2025

Power. Skill. Heart. Steel.
Tasked with taming the best
No opponent too big, no moment too small.
Every battle felt winnable with him beside you. Thanks JS 💙 incredible career and service 👏 https://t.co/f3Aw1ryVgP

— Ciarán Kilkenny (@CKKilkenny93) October 9, 2025

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