27-07-2025
David Clifford hailed as the 'greatest ever' as he wins second All-Ireland
David Clifford has been hailed as the 'greatest ever' footballer after he earned his second Celtic Cross as Kerry beat Donegal in the 2025 All-Ireland Football.
In the build-up to the game, much was made of Jim McGuinness and his coaching staff's plan for the two-time Footballer of the Year after his rampant season.
The Fossa man has thrived under the new rules and produced his best season to date, and despite being marshalled by Brendan McCole, Clifford managed to score a remarkable 0-09, including a clinical solo score in the second half score to maintain daylight between the two teams.
Donegal manager McGuinness said earlier in the week that Clifford could go down as the greatest footballer ever, while Dessie Farrell said something similar in 2023 in the build-up to the final.
And GAA fans couldn't praise Clifford highly enough following the performance.
"David Clifford just played one of the most unselfish games ever in an All Ireland Final. He spread out the Donegal defence and allowed other Kerry players to thrive . When asked he was absolutely clinical. A masterclass of a performance from the big man," said one fan.
"David Clifford is the best to ever kick a ball," said another.
"He had a quiet second half, and I've said it again, and I will be saying it for the rest of my life, but David Clifford is the greatest to ever do it. Incredible"
"Cliffords are unreal, David, one of the best I've ever seen play GAA," said another.
Clifford will be heavily favoured to win a third Footballer of the Year Award and would become the first player to do so. The second Celtic Cross will cement his legacy, while he'll undoubtedly pick up his sixth All-Star Award as Kerry ran out 1-26 to 0-19 winners.
