Former teammates and colleagues look back at the brilliance of Patrick McBrearty

He has left memories that will be cherished - Thompson

Another teammate at county level, Ciarán Thompson, said he was shocked when he heard the news that McBrearty was hanging up the boots at county level.

“It was a massive shock. I knew he’d had his troubles with the knee but he loved Donegal that much, Paddy always pushed through.   

“But it’s got to the point where he’s been advised that he needed to step away. It’s a massive blow. Paddy, as well as his quality, he was a huge presence in our dressing room. 

“He’s been unbelievable. I remember the excitement about Paddy, as a young fella, coming into the panel. 

“He was huge, even though he was still just a teenager. It’s crazy to think he played minor and senior championship on the one day. 

“He was just a different animal at minor. He was unplayable for the rest at the age group. And he took that into senior. And he departs as Donegal’s most decorated player. 

“Like, both he and Colm McFadden were there when I came in in 2015. As a left footer, I just loved watching them and, eventually, joining them before and after just clipping points. 

“In the end, we’d have little competitions after and it was always very competitive. 

“What I noticed right away about Paddy was that he always looked to take on the responsibility. I guess that’s what I learned - get the head up right away and see what’s on. 

“Paddy called it as he saw it and that will also be a huge miss. He didn’t shy away from anything when it needed to be said.

“There was accountability there in that sense, he was brilliant in those situations. His body of work, the memories he’s left Donegal supporters, they will always be cherished,” said Thompson.