Clarke retires from county football

FORMER Cavan captain Killian Clarke has retired from inter-county football after over 130 senior appearances for county.

The versatile Shercock man won Ulster medals at minor, u-21 and senior level.

It will be a blow to new manager Dermot McCabe ahead of the 2026 season.

He made his senior championship debut against Donegal in 2012 with his NFL debut coming against Antrim the following year.

In total, Clarke made 134 senior appearances in Breffni Blues, in a number of positions, scoring 2-25 in the process.

A Ulster minor winner in 2011, he picked up u-21 Ulster medals in the each of the next three seasons.

The highlight was the part he played in the county lifting the Anglo Celt Cup in 2020, the first time in 23 years.

The progression from minor (2011) through under-21 success to senior championship glory in 2020 shows remarkable longevity and development.

Clarke was nominated for an All-Star, won a Railway Cup medal and played for Ireland for two seasons in the International Rules.

Cavan GAA issued the following statement:

“All in Cavan GAA County Board wish Killian the very best for the future and thank him sincerely for his dedication and commitment to Cavan GAA over the years. Enjoy the time with your family and friends.”