It didn’t take long for Sydney Swans veteran Jude Bolton to announce his retirement this afternoon before a wave of tributes began to come in for the 321-game champ.

Current and former AFL players, media personalities and fans have recognised the dual premiership player’s career with the Swans, which has spanned over 15 years.

South Melbourne legend Bob Skilton was among the notable names to pay tribute to Bolton, labelling the Swans’ number 24 the ‘ultimate’ team player.

“On and off the field he’s just been sensational and he’s always there,” Skilton told sydneyswans.com.au.

“You love him lining up for goal because the odds are he’ll put it through and whether he’ll be on ball or as a half-forward, you know you’re going to get 100 per cent from Jude no matter what.

“I think Jude has been the ultimate team person and does whatever he’s asked to do.”

Scroll down for further tributes paid to Bolton this afternoon

Skilton said Bolton’s ability to recover from injury and keep on fighting was a credit to him as a player.

“I remember when he did his knee and when he hobbled off I said ‘We’re in trouble here’ and doubted whether we’d see Jude again that year because when he can’t chase the football then there is something wrong,” he said.

“But he got there and he played in the premiership and it was just fantastic, and we’ve got to say thank you to Jude for all he’s done over the length of time he’s been there.

“Year in, year out he’s been the ultimate clubman and he’s been superb.”