Down forward Danny Hughes retires from inter-county football

Down player Danny Hughes has been forced to retire

Down forward Danny Hughes has retired from inter-county football after three seasons ravaged by injury.

Down manager James McCartan had hoped Hughes, who won an All Star when Down reached the All-Ireland final in 2010, would return to his squad this year.

"It was always going to be a 50-50 call," admitted McCartan.

"He had major groin surgery last year and was a long time getting over that, so we're sad to see him step away but we wish him well."

The Saval club man's appearances at county level were severely limited in the past few seasons.

His last game for Down was as a late substitute in the All-Ireland football qualifier defeat to Derry in Celtic Park last July.

"Danny hasn't had a free run since 2010," said McCartan.

"He's been fairly frustrated that he hasn't been able to get a long period of time at training.

"He is a guy we'd like to have on board but life moves on."