Another Kilkenny great, JJ Delaney, has announced his inter-county retirement.

Recognised as one of the most stylish and versatile defenders in the modern game, the Fenians clubman won nine All-Ireland medals, 10 Leinster championships, seven All Stars, eight Allianz Leagues and two Inter-provincial medals  in a glittering career stretching back to 2001 when he was first called up to Brian Cody's panel. He was also the Hurler of the Year in 2003.

A real warrior of a player who had plenty of skill to boot, JJ began his Kilkenny career as a corner back before switching to left half back. He later moved to full back where he seamlessly filled the void left by Noel Hickey.

His father Shem was also an All-Ireland winner with the Cats, as were his uncles Billy Fitzpatrick and the late Pat Delaney, and his cousin PJ Delaney.

His retirement from inter-county hurling follows those of fellow Kilkenny stars Tommy Walsh, Brian Hogan, Aidan Fogarty and David Herity.

Of the five retirees, he was the only one to start the All-Ireland SHC final replay against Tipperary at the end of September.

"I wish to announce that I am retiring from the Kilkenny senior hurling panel," the 32-year-old full back said in a statement issued through Kilkenny GAA.

"I have enjoyed my time being part of such a talented group of players and management teams. I wish to thank Brian Cody and his selectors for allowing me to play hurling at the highest level. I also thank the Kilkenny county board for their support on and off the field.

"Thanks to the GPA they been a great help to my development in both my sporting and professional career. My father, family, close friends and my girlfriend Aisling have been a huge source of encouragement and support to me over the years. I thank my club The Fenians, my former teachers and various coaches for instilling in me a love for the greatest field game in the world.

"It's been amazing the encouragement the Kilkenny supporters have given me down through the years and for this I thank you all. I am grateful to my employer Kingspan Insulation for their support. I wish the Kilkenny senior hurling panel and management team continued success in the future."

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