Henry Shefflin leads tributes as Kilkenny's Brian Cody steps down

Former star Kilkenny player Henry Shefflin has led tributes to Brian Cody after he stepped down as Kilkenny senior hurling manager this afternoon.

In his 24-year tenure, Cody led the Cats to 11 All-Ireland titles, 18 Leinster championship titles and 10 National League titles, with Shefflin on his team for many of the wins.

Current Galway manager Shefflin, whose relationship with Cody has come in for scrutiny in recent times with on-pitch handshakes between the pair perceived as “frosty”, nonetheless offered his “best wishes” to Cody on his retirement.

“End of an era, memories which will be treasured forever,” he said in a tweet.

End of an Era, Memories which will be treasured forever. Best wishes Brian. https://t.co/FeLxuWBVcE

— Henry Shefflin (@ShefflinHenry) July 23, 2022

Other former players also paid tribute on Saturday, including Jackie Tyrrell, Eddie Brennan and Eoin Larkin.

“One of the very very lucky ones to have witnessed Brian Cody up close in action,” Tyrrell tweeted. “His passion and love for Kilkenny hurling is unparalleled. Honoured to have been managed by the greatest manager ever.”

“There aren’t enough words to do the man justice,” Brennan tweeted. “I got to live a dream & play for Kilkenny.”

Larkin simply tweeted: “Brian Cody. Where do you want your statue ???”

A statement on behalf of James Stephens. Everyone in the club is so grateful for the years of service Brian Cody has given to club and county. pic.twitter.com/uyIjStt3PD

— James Stephens GAA (@VillageGAA) July 23, 2022

The 68-year-old called time on his Cats career after leading his side to another All-Ireland decider last weekend which they lost to Limerick.

His opposing manager on the day was John Kiely, who on Saturday described Cody’s success