Before any debate can take place on your columnist Liam Mackey’s suggestion that Dundalk can now be considered one the greatest teams to play in the domestic league, it is necessary to have a proper list of declared runners.

Lately in the pages of this newspaper, you may have seen a lengthy interview with Jim Nolan, the Waterford playwright.

Romance was in the air at Ford’s showrooms in Sandyford, Dublin on Tuesday but, despite the gleaming array of new and vintage motors on display, that special tingle had nothing to do with the lure of the open road or the magic in the night that Springsteen had in mind back when him and Mary were “pullin’ outta here to win”.

Dundalk defender Shaun Kelly has been called into the Republic of Ireland Under-23 squad to face England at the RSC next Wednesday.

SO HERE it is.

Former Nottingham Forest favourite Tommy Gaynor is the new manager of Kilkenny City FC.

ONE is pleased to wish Fran Gavin and Noel Mooney a Happy Christmas and, with even more than the usual reflex festive cheer, a particularly prosperous New Year.

CYCLING legend Seán Kelly has been selected as Waterford’s greatest ever sporting hero. He came out top in the poll run by Waterford radio station WLR FM in conjunction with Anglo Irish Bank.

Waterford United look set to appoint caretaker Giles Cheevers as manager for the rest of the season, with former playing legend and boss Alfie Hale acting as advisor.

CORK CITY have offered a new contract to George O'Callaghan against the backdrop of a bid for the player by Drogheda United, as the July transfer window opens in the eircom League.

MOST of the players weren’t alive when Waterford United last took the FAI Cup home, but it’s the dream of recreating history that’s driving the Déise Blues in their quest for victory in tomorrow’s Cup Final.

TALKS between Cork’s striking hurlers and footballers and members of the county board executive are expected to resume on Friday.