By Shaun Casey

Down GAA stalwart Kevin McKernan has announced his retirement from intercounty football after a career that spanned 16 years at the top level.

The Burren native has decided to hang up the boots after Down crashed out of the Tailteann Cup at the hands of Cavan last weekend.

McKernan first arrived on the scene as a youngster, coming on against Armagh in a National League encounter back in 2007 after helping the counties minor team to All-Ireland glory two years previous.

A MacRory Cup and Hogan Cup winner with Abbey CBS in 2006, McKernan played a vital role in Down reaching the 2010 All-Ireland final.

He helped his club Burren to three county championships and also pulled on the national jersey in the 2011 International Rules series.

In a lengthy retirement statement, the former Down captain said, “I have been so very privileged to wear my county colours at all levels for a very special 18 years.”