Dessie Farrell says that Stephen Cluxton has "stepped away" from the Dublin football panel, though the 39-year-old has not retired from the inter-county game.
Cluxton was absent from the Dublin squad for Sunday's victory over Wexford in the Leinster quarter-finals. Ballymun's Evan Comerford wore the number one jersey for Dublin, with Michael Shiel on the bench.
Stephen Cluxton has "stepped away" from Dublin panel
"I don't know [if he will play for Dublin this year], is the honest answer," the Dublin manager told RTE Radio One's Sunday Sport
"Stephen has stepped away. Everyone could see he wasn't with us today. I'm sure all the Dublin supporters, and admirers of Stephen Cluxton all over the country will be hoping that's not the last we've seen of Stephen Cluxton in a Dublin jersey.
"Ultimately, the decision rests with him. He's asked for time away. He's stepped away. He's playing with his club. We'll review it as we go. We always operate on the basis of an open door policy within Dublin football. If Stephen feels he wants rejoin, and has something to contribute, we'd very much welcome him.
"We've been in contact. He's done some sessions with our goalkeeping coach. Primarily, he's been with his club, and he's with his club now. He's just taken time out. He deserves that time, and we should all respect his time and space on this one."
Cluxton last played for Dublin in December's All-Ireland final victory over Mayo. The victory saw the Parnells player win his eighth All-Ireland medal.
"No, he's hasn't retired," said Farrell.
"I think we can state that categorically. As I say, the decision rests with Stephen.
"He's been a significant player for Dublin over the years, a leader of this group. By the same token, it comes for every great player, a decision has to be made."
Picture credit: Sportsfile
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