Retirements had been anticipated when it came to Dublin football this off-season but Brian Fenton's exit came as a surprise.
While veteran James McCarthy had already announced his decision to call-time on his career, the futures of Stephen Cluxton and Michael Fitzsimons remained subject to speculation.
Fenton meanwhile, caused a real surprise when it was announced that the seven-time All-Ireland winner would be stepping away from the Dublin panel.
Just 31, Fenton has decided to retire from inter-county football after ten seasons in blue.
31 March 2024; Brian Fenton of Dublin leaves the pitch after he was sent off by referee Conor Lane during the Allianz Football League Division 1 Final match between Dublin and Derry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
The Raheny man won seven All-Irelands, six All-Stars, and was twice named Footballer of the Year across his career - a career in which he never once lost a Leinster Championship game.
There was a finality to Dublin's statement which suggests that their midfield talisman has no intention of any future U-turns.
Now, in his own words, Fenton has effectively confirmed that his time with Dublin has come to a close.
Brian Fenton confirms retirement in statement
Lenghty statements have become increasingly common from sportspeople when announcing their retirements on social media in recent years.
However, Fenton was more to the point when taking to X on Sunday evening.
Words will never suffice to explain the privilege it has been to represent this county," he wrote.
"Proud of that kid for chasing his dreams."
He accompanied the words with images from some of his best moments in a Dublin jersey while also sharing an image of himself as a kid sporting the Dublin blue.
Words will never suffice to explain the privilege it has been to represent this county.
Proud of that kid for chasing his dreams 💙 pic.twitter.com/9LsASrWiEc— Brian Fenton (@BrianFenton08) November 23, 2024
Dublin's midfield will certainly have a new feel to it now that two stalwarts in Fenton and McCarthy have bowed out front inter-county football.
Fellow Dublin legend Philly McMahon has suggested that more players could follow the decorated duo out the exit door before the new season gets underway.
