McBrearty retirement described as unfortunate by McGuinness.

Donegal manager Jim McGuinness said Patrick McBrearty retired on medical advice after recurring knee problems, and he paid tribute to McBrearty's long contribution to the county.

Patrick McBrearty announced his retirement from inter-county football in December on medical advice after a run of injuries, including a troublesome knee. Donegal manager Jim McGuinness described the decision as unfortunate and recognised McBrearty's significant contribution over many years. McGuinness said McBrearty would likely have wanted another season but that medical advice made retirement necessary. Donegal's recent match was a Dr McKenna Cup win over Antrim, and the team is due to play a semi-final at Celtic Park on Wednesday. Key facts: - Patrick McBrearty retired in December on medical advice after ongoing injury issues, notably a knee problem. - McBrearty is 32, first played at inter-county level in 2011 and was part of Donegal's 2012 All-Ireland winning team. - Jim McGuinness called the retirement "unfortunate" and acknowledged McBrearty's long service and achievements for Donegal. - Donegal beat Antrim in the Dr McKenna Cup and will meet in a semi-final at Celtic Park on Wednesday. Summary: McBrearty's retirement marks the end of a lengthy and decorated inter-county career and is being acknowledged by the team and management. McGuinness is concentrating on integrating new senior players and preparing the squad for the upcoming Dr McKenna Cup semi-final.