Wexford star Paul Morris announces inter-county retirement

The Wexford hurling panel have lost their longest serving player, with Paul Morris calling time on an inter-county career that spanned more than a decade at the age of 32.

The Ferns St Aidans clubman received his first call-up for the Model County in 2010, making his championship debut against Galway later that year.

An accomplished free-taker, he retires as one of Wexford's top-10 championship scorers of all time after recording more than 120 competitive appearances in all competitions.

The highlight of his inter-county career was winning the Leinster title with the county in 2019, while he also picked up three Walsh Cup medals along the way.

New Wexford boss Darragh Egan has lost two key figures to retirement inside a week, with Morris's contemporary Shaun Murphy also departing from the inter-county scene.

Reflecting on his decision, Morris said: "I’ve loved every minute wearing the purple and gold. It’s been one of the greatest honours of my life.

"As a kid, all I ever wanted was to play in Croke Park and climb the Hogan Stand steps for Leinster and All-Ireland glory.

"Thankfully, one of them was achieved, however I can no longer give the levels required, and my focus now turns to prolonging my club career.

"I owe a depth of gratitude to all my team-mates, managers, Wexford supporters and coaches over the years. The friendships and bonds created will be cherished forever.

"My club, Ferns St Aidans, gave me the platform to represent Wexford and I look forward now to helping the next generation in our club.

Finally, huge thanks to my family and fiancee Leanne. Nobody has supported me more through thick and thin, and this might now make watching games a bit easier.

"I wish Wexford every success for 2023. Thanks for the memories -