Derry defensive rock Chrissy McKaigue has brought the curtain down on his stellar 15-year inter-county career.

Apart from a two-year spell with the Sydney Swans in the AFL, McKaigue has been a stalwart of the Derry defence since making his championship debut in 2008. The former captain and renowned man-marker won two Ulster SFC titles, an Allianz League Division 1 medal and an All-Star in a brilliant career. His retirement comes just days after the Oak Leaf County ended a four-month search for a new manager with the appointment of Paddy Tally.

"The time is right. I have been thinking about iy for some time. I spoke to Paddy, and echoed my feelings to him early so we could move forward in our respective future endeavours," the 35-year-old Slaughtneil dual star told RTÉ.

"I just wanted to have everything straight from the start of the new regime, with no uncertainty and no speculation over the winter. It's mid-November and coming out with this decision now with this certainty allows the team and management to move forward.

"Getting my body right, embracing all the aspects of modern training and getting my mind right, it has been hard work over 15 years with Derry. My gut says now is the right time to step aside."

Paying tribute to McKaigue, Derry GAA said:  "As a former Derry senior captain and an All-Star recipient in 2022, Chrissy leaves a legacy etched in determination, leadership, and excellence.

"Throughout his career – 149 senior appearances – Chrissy was more than just a player. His leadership both on and off the pitch guided Derry through some of its most defining moments in recent years, reestablishing the county as a force to be reckoned with in Gaelic football.

"Chrissy’s passion for Derry GAA was evident in every match, every tackle, and every rallying cry to his team.

"His All-Star recognition in 2022 was a fitting testament to his skill, work ethic, and commitment, but his contributions went far beyond individual accolades.”

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