Former Dublin footballer Paul Flynn has faced criticism for a tweet that suggested Kerry's David Clifford was 'smoked' in the All-Ireland final on Sunday. Dublin emerged victorious against rivals Kerry in the final with a score of 1-15 to 1-13, and Clifford's performance became a major talking point.
During the game, Clifford had an off day and was effectively contained by Dublin's Michael Fitzsimons. He managed to score only 0-2 from play and a total of 0-3, which was below his usual high standards.
Prior to the final, Clifford was considered a favorite to win the Sunday Game's Footballer of the Year award, but the honor ultimately went to Dublin captain James McCarthy. This decision sparked a debate, with Kerry's Tomás Ó Sé supporting his county man and expressing his belief that Clifford deserved the accolade.
“It was a very difficult decision,” the Kingdom legend said on Sunday
“I think we actually got the decision wrong! I got a text from Pat Gilroy (former Dublin manager and now water carrier), during the show telling me to smile. He thought I was too serious altogether. I got a laugh out of that.
“It came down to two players: James McCarthy and David Clifford. On a personal level, I think the best footballer throughout the whole season... I think today, he didn't have his best day at the office. He won't be too pushed about that.
“My personal vote was Clifford, but James McCarthy got the nod as Player of the Year.”
Flynn also joined the debate, stating that McCarthy deserved the award due to his exceptional performances throughout the season, as well as his ability to inspire and bring out the best in his teammates.
The one added thing, like not only did he perform at the highest level all season, you can guarantee that he got 10% at least out of every player that played with him this year, and that adds to it.
"It's not all about what they do on the pitch, it's what they do to bring others into the game and he walks the walk every day, and I'm chuffed for him."
However, in a later tweet at midnight, Flynn also claimed that Clifford was 'smoked' against Dublin and criticised the notion of him being named Footballer of the Year.
"Clifford was smoked against Dublin and poor against Tyrone yet still ppl think he is footballer of the year. Not for me - James Mc led Dublin to glory without having his best day yest! He’s a born winner and leader," he tweeted.
The tweet received negative reactions from some social media users, who pointed out that Flynn scored 3-33 in his 11-year Dublin career, while Clifford scored 5-42 just in that year.
"In your 11 year Dublin career Paul you scored 3-33 (according to wikipedia). David Clifford scored 5-42 .... this year. I'd say when you sober up this morning you'll have the cop on to apologise. No need to delete the tweet, we'll need a place to go to laugh in the future," said one Twitter user
Others defended Clifford, emphasising his consistent and remarkable performance that played a significant role in Kerry reaching the final.
"What a pathetic tweet, the scrutiny David Clifford is getting online is nothing short of embarrassing! He's a big reason Kerry got to the final. One "bad" game and he isn't player of the year? His consistency has been amazing all year. Put some respect on his name," said another.
Subsequently, Flynn clarified his stance in a follow-up tweet, acknowledging that while he believed Fitzsimons had the upper hand against Clifford, he still recognised Clifford as one of the best players of their generation and a great ambassador for the sport. He expressed regret for the late-night tweet and indicated that he would refrain from similar incidents in the future.
"Bit of controversy re my last tweet; Do I think Mick Fitz got the better of Clifford? Yes Do I think Clifford was POTY? No Do I think he’s one of best in our generation? Yes - and top ambassador for game. No more midnight tweets."
Bit of controversy re my last tweet;
Do I think Mick Fitz got the better of Clifford? Yes
Do I think Clifford was POTY? No
Do I think he’s one of best in our generation? Yes - and top ambassador for game.
No more midnight tweets 🤐 https://t.co/sGsPrTpo0f— Paul Flynn (@Flinto23) August 1, 2023
