There was a huge shock in the GAA world last night, with the news emerging that Mickey Harte had suddenly left his position as Louth manage in order to take up a position with Derry.
The Tyrone native had made some serious strides in the Wee county in recent times, helping them into Division 2 and then making a promotion tilt in the second tier. It was expected that he would continue that good work in 2024, but the 71-year old has now taken up a more attractive offer.
With it being confirmed Rory Gallagher would not be returning as Derry manager in 2024, it was always going to be interesting who they appointed as manager. It certainly was not thought that they would go for Harte, who led neighbouring Tyrone to three All-Ireland titles during 18 years in charge.
The move has received a mixed response, with Joe Brolly among those in Derry to question the appointment. Louth also feel understandably put out, considering they were sure that Harte would be on board for next season.
Tyrone legend not pleased with Mickey Harte move to Derry
You also get the sense that this move will not go down well in Tyrone.
Derry are one of the county's main rivals, having won back-to-back Ulster titles over the last two seasons. It will certainly be interesting to see what type of reception Mickey Harte would get from their supporters, with one former player saying he hopes to see him welcome to Omagh by a chorus of boos.
Speaking on the Smaller Fish GAA podcast, Owen Mulligan also compared the move to a Celtic fans going to manage Rangers.
"Mickey Harte has every right to go to who he wants to manage but to go to Rangers is crazy" 🤣
Had a bit of craic with Mugsey but very fair analysis from him on the move and Mickey's legacy in Tyrone.@AIGIreland
Full show link in bio pic.twitter.com/V7LaAeFhCn— Smaller Fish GAA (@SmallerFishGAA) September 19, 2023
At the end of the day, it was the [Tyrone] county board that game Mickey the road and told him to go. Obviously it's still hurting and obviously it's a thorn in his side.
There's that wee bite in you and that wee animal in you that says 'two fingers up to yourself, if you don't want me I'm going to go to somebody else, we'll see what happens'.
I remember thinking 'be careful what you wish for'. This is serious stuff now. I keep going back to Derry, Derry are a serious team. I always thought maybe they were three or four players short.
Mickey Harte has every right to go to whoever he wants to manage, but to go to Rangers is crazy...
It's going to get hot and heavy, especially if they draw each other in the championship.
Would I like to see Mickey Harte get booed in Omagh whenever he comes out with Derry? Absolutely!
He's the enemy now, I'm a Tyrone supporter as well. Once you cross the white line that's it, see you later Mickey.
As for the legacy , he was the first person to being Sam Maguire to Tyrone and he has won three All-Irelands. That legacy never leaves you.
You can listen to the podcast in full here.
Mulligan clearly owes a lot to Harte having been part of the Tyrone team to win All-Irelands in 2003, 2005, and 2008. While you get the sense that he is still fond of his old manager, he certainly won't be wishing him any success in his new role with Derry.
SEE ALSO: Joe Brolly Has Made His Displeasure With The Mickey Harte Appointment Pretty Clear
