By Cian O'Connell

Michael Murphy, one of Donegal's greatest ever footballers, has retired from inter-county action.

The Glenswilly clubman announced his decision on Wednesday evening following a glittering career with Donegal.

Murphy made his senior debut for Donegal as a 17 year old in 2007, enjoying a productive career at the highest level for a decade and a half.

In 2012 Murphy captained Donegal to All-Ireland SFC glory, scoring 1-4 in the final against Mayo at Croke Park.

A three time All-Star Murphy won five Ulster Championships as Donegal captain in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2018, and 2019.

With Glenswilly Murphy has gleaned three Donegal SFC titles in 2011, 2013, and 2016.

"To have the chance to combine a sport I love with the place I love for 20 years of my life is a privilege and honour for which I am very grateful," Murphy says. 

"But I always knew the day would come when this chapter of my life would have to close. Now, that day has arrived.

"I still love Gaelic football and I still love Donegal. However, in the team I’m proud to have captained, to compete at the level which Donegal deserves requires the best I can give every day. I no longer feel I have the energy and capacity to reach the performance levels to give my best to Donegal.

"The last time we sat together in the changing rooms in Clones, I told my teammates that whatever happened in the future, Donegal will always go on. That’s still my belief. 

"I cannot and never will be able to express how thankful I am to my teammates and managers and those giving expert support over the seasons. Friendships and bonds have been forged which go with me throughout my life."

Murphy highlighted the people who provided Donegal outfits with assistance. "To those good people who support our county team and everyone I know in Donegal: they say we are different up here," he adds. 

"Well, we are different in the best of ways. Thank you to all of you who have made this journey very special for me. I look forward to pulling on a Donegal jersey and joining you in the terraces to support our teams.

"To my own family and my club Glenswilly GAA, you’ve always been there for me, through the highs and the lows. It was you who made the sacrifices so that I could follow my dream. 

"My family and my club are at the centre of all my plans for the future. They deserve the best of me too. Maybe in the years ahead, I’ll find new ways to offer something more to my home county."