Kennelly's return influenced Cavanagh to stay

SEÁN CAVANAGH admitted the desire of Irish AFL star Tadhg Kennelly to return and win an All-Ireland medal with Kerry influenced his decision not to join the Brisbane Lions.

The Tyrone star, who at 22 has achieved more than most players in their lifetime, admitted that the lure of a professional career may have been greater if he was younger and his county wasn't so successful.

"It was not good enough to take me away and the financial aspect didn't really come into play. I wanted to stay at home with friends and family where I am a big name. Why would I want to come out to Australia and risk playing a game I might not even be good at. It was a risk and I'm happy with the decision I made. Every young player when he's growing up, especially back in Ireland, would want to be a professional player. And the whole lifestyle would obviously attract you out to Australia, consider it's raining and snowing back home. It was a huge decision to make but it's a great time to be with Tyrone."