By Cian O'Connell

Kerry forward Darran O'Sullivan has retired from inter-county football.

During a glittering playing career O'Sullivan won four All Ireland titles, 10 Munster Championships, and three Allianz Football Leagues in the Kerry jersey.

O'Sullivan announced his decision on Tuesday morning. "I’ve been extremely blessed to have had a career I could never have dreamed of," O'Sullivan stated. 

"I joined my boyhood heroes in the dressing room during the winter of 2004, fresh faced and straight out of minors and since then, have been lucky enough to have pulled the green and gold jersey on for 70 Championship appearances, as well as having the opportunity to captain Kerry to All Ireland glory."

The Glenbeigh-Glenca clubman thoroughly enjoyed his time in the Kerry jersey.

"To my teammates who I was lucky enough to play with, I want to thank you all for the memories we made and the bond that we created inside the dressing room," O'Sullivan added. 

"To say this was the greatest period of my life, is putting it mildly, I loved every minute of it and I wouldn’t change anything. The successes were well celebrated, and the disappointments were mourned together. 

"There’s nothing more powerful than a dressing room united pulling in the same direction and that’s what I will miss the most. However, the highlight is that I am leaving that same dressing room with incredible friendships, friendships which I know will stand the test of time."

Former Kerry manager Eamonn Fitzmaurice praised O'Sullivan's rich contribution.

"He has given fantastic service to the Kerry jersey over a long period of time," Fitzmaurice remarked. "He is a member of two exclusive clubs having made his championship debut in his first year out of minor in 2005 and having lifted Sam Maguire as captain in 2009, a personal pinnacle. 

"His explosive all action style meant he was a fan favourite from the off and right up until his last appearance against Kildare in this years championship he has excited people every time he touched the ball."