New Monaghan boss Gabriel Bannigan has wasted no time in trying to get his squad sorted for next season, just a couple of weeks after getting the role.
Bannigan replaces Vinny Corey who was in charge of the Fareny county for two seasons, but since his departure, fans have wondered if the more experienced players would follow him out the door.
Conor McManus is the name on everyone's lips as the superstar forward is widely considered to be the county's best ever player, and although he will be 37 by the time the new season begins, he would still offer so much.
A hand injury has ruled him out of the Monaghan club championship, and although he has said himself that he is almost sure that this is the end, his reluctance to pull the plug on it and announce his retirement, leaves fans with some hope.
Darren Hughes and Karl O’Connell are both 37, and have been performing at the top level without any signs of weakness for years, but injury had derailed both of their seasons in 2024.
With a new man in charge, and a fresh backroom team including Mayo legend Andy Moran, Bannigan is hopeful that he will see the trio of veterans in a blue and white jersey again.
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“They have been phenomenal servants, and they wouldn’t have kept going back for more if they didn’t feel there was more to give", Bannigan told The Irish news.
“The three of them are in the same position; they’re involved with clubs in the Monaghan championship, and they really don’t know themselves until that’s over and they see how their body is, and whether they feel there is anything left to give.
“But those men are Monaghan through and through, and they know that if they have anything left to give we’ll certainly want to have them on board.”
Bannigan also confirmed that Rory Beggan will 100% be involved with the county next season, and that they will have his full focus.
The fly goalie had spent large chunks of last year in America with the opportunity of becoming a kicker in the NFL a real possibility for him, and although it was a great experience, that has passed now and playing for Monaghanand Scotstown is his main focus.
