The tributes have been pouring in for Kilkenny's Michael Fennelly since the eight-time All-Ireland winner announced his inter-county retirement on yesterday evening.

The Ballyhale Shamrocks clubman enjoyed an incredible 12-year career with the Cats, winning nine Leinster titles, five National Leagues and three All Star gongs to go along with the eight Celtic Crosses he earned.

Below are some of the most glowing tributes that have been paid to Fennelly on Twitter by former team mates and fellow inter-county players:

Well done to @MFennellyKK on a great career. One of the best players we ever had and an incredible leader

- Richie Hogan (@richiehogan8) December 29, 2017

Congrats on an exceptional career @MFennellyKK - you were an absolute joy to watch. Enjoy the next chapter and best wishes with your PhD.

- Alan Dillon (@Alan_Dillon) December 30, 2017

Congrats to @MFennellyKK on a great career! Huge leader on the pitch and always delivered big performances! Well deserved!

- Paul Murphy (@PaulMurphykk) December 30, 2017

Congrats @MFennellyKK on an outstanding county career. To produce the level of performances you did with so many severe injuries speaks volumes about your playing ability & mental strength. https://t.co/e20pfCr7bc

- Aaron Kernan (@AaronKernan) December 30, 2017

Congrats @MFennellyKK on an amazing intercounty career enjoy the next chapter

- Philly Mc Mahon (@PhillyMcMahon) December 29, 2017

Congratulations to @MFennellyKK on an incredible intercounty career. Not too many men that can influence teams and games like Fenno did. Enjoy the retirement bud. Well earned.

- Kieran Joyce (@joycek87) December 29, 2017

Congrats on an incredible career buddy, gutted to see you hang up the boots but what a player @MFennellyKK https://t.co/w9DHiZPQAN

- Darran O'Sullivan (@Darransull86) December 29, 2017

Best of luck Michael, some career... Always performed on the biggest days, that says enough !!!!! https://t.co/Lj5LfOqQrL

- Aidan O Mahony (@GmailMahony) December 29, 2017

Huge congratulations @MFennellyKK on an incredible career. The best midfielder of this generation. A total gent to boot. Well done

- Neil McManus (@Neilmcmanus88) December 29, 2017

Well done Michael. Unbelievable career. Enjoy the retirement and the plaudits you get. Catch up soon

- Tomás Ó Sé (@tomas5ky) December 29, 2017

Congrats big man.. Legend

- Paul Flynn (@Flinto23) December 29, 2017

An absolute Champion of our game @MFennellyKK . Congrats on a wonderful career and enjoy the next stage of life !

- Diarmuid O'Sullivan (@dsully3) December 29, 2017

@MFennellyKK broke many rules on & off the field to wear @KilkennyCLG jersey- breaking my Twitter sabbatical to wish him a very happy retirement-powerhouse in the middle of the park and a gent everywhere else. Some great memories to bring with you pal. life is good. https://t.co/pMT6NCtkX3

- Henry Shefflin (@ShefflinHenry) December 29, 2017

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