Former Dublin manager Tommy Lyons has paid tribute to Barry Cahill.

Cahill announced his retirement from intercounty football yesterday. Lyons handed the St Brigid's clubman his senior debut back in 2002 and Cahill went on to represent his county in the full back, half back and half forward lines as well as at midfield:

"Eight Leinster medals proves what a really good footballer for Dublin Barry Cahill was," Lyons is quoted in today's Irish Sun.

"He gave you 100% every time he went out, he never got involved in the politics of panels or any negativity and he was as good a gaelic footballer as Dublin ever produced.

"Winning that All-Ireland in 2011 would have brought huge fulfilment for the lads like Barry who were at it since 2002. And it is typical of Barry that he took time to consider things and if he thought he couldn't give the commitment and time required that that he would make a decision.

"It's a pity that he has had a lot of bad injuries. He suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury back in 2003 but he still came back from that and played really well and was a very influential guy and his experience was vital in the run to the All-Ireland.

"I always felt his best position was right half back but he always had a great attitude and he would play no matter where he was asked and got on and did the job.

"Jim Gavin will be disappointed not to have him, but he will be happy that if Barry hasn't the commitment required, that he is honest and Jim will take this on the chin and move on." Tweet

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