Stephen Cluxton lined for his club Parnells against O'Tooles in Division Three North of Dublin's Adult Football League on Wednesday evening.
Parnells won the game, which was played in Coolock, 2-14 to 0-13. The 39-year-old eight-time All-Ireland winning goalkeeper played outfield - as he usually does for the club - wearing number six.
7 July 2021; Stephen Cluxton of Parnells in action against Ciarán Brabazon of O'Tooles during the Go Ahead Adult Football League Division Three North match at Parnells GAA Club in Coolock, Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
Following Dublin's Leinster Football Championship victory over Wexford on Sunday, manager Dessie Farrell revealed that Cluxton has "stepped away" from the reigning All-Ireland champions' panel. Though, he was keen to add that the player has not retired.
There was much speculation in the build up to the game that Cluxton had decided to retired from inter-county football. He did not play for Dublin in this year's truncated National League.
"Ultimately, the decision rests with him," said Farrell.
"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."
Stephen Cluxton lines out for Parnells vs O'Tooles
Stephen Cluxton in action against Andrew Morris of O'Tooles. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
Stephen Cluxton of Parnells looks on, alongside umpire Martin Flanagan. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
Stephen Cluxton of Parnells fist bumps with Ciarán Gethings of O'Tooles. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
See Also: Conor Sweeney 'All For' Introduction Of The Tailteann Cup
