Aaron Kernan "set the standard" for attacking half-backs in gaelic football according to Oisin McConville.

And 2002 All-Ireland winner McConville believes Armagh will live to regret his Crossmaglen club-mate's decision to retire from inter-county football at 30 years of age.

"It's a massive blow for Armagh and Kieran McGeeney," McConville told The Irish News.

"I don't think they will realise it until they are further down the line when they are in a game where they need him to dictate the situation.

"One of the greats? No doubt about it. He sort of set the tone for that position.

"Aaron just took it upon himself to play that way. He set the standard for the attacking half-backs of this generation.

"People sometimes throw a jibe at Aaron for his defensive work, but I am yet to see him struggle with anybody in a defensive capacity. He was equally capable at both.

"He picked the right times to go forward and put half-forwards under pressure.

"I would like to see him at Cross for another six or seven years. I don't think that is beyond him."

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