Tipp close to naming new manager

TIPPERARY are likely to name their new senior hurling manager at next Tuesday night’s County Board meeting.

Chairman Donie Shanahan said his board is close to finalising the appointment: “I don’t want to see the situation dragging on too long,” said the Toomevara man.

“The County Board will tie up the loose ends this week and I expect to make the announcement at next week’s board meeting.”

Mr Shanahan refused to speculate on who the new coach will be. “It would not be fair on anyone to openly discuss the matter.

“We’ll do our business in the proper manner and make an announcement when we are good and ready. Tipperary hurling is what matters most.”

Tipperary’s last All-Ireland success was under Nicky English in 2001, and he is tipped to be part of the new management team with Michael ‘Babs’ Keating.

However, while the County Board wants input into the selection committee, Keating has made it clear he would like to pick his own men.

Keating took over as coach in 1987 when Tipperary hadn’t won an All-Ireland senior title since 1971. He succeeded in winning five Munster, two All-Ireland and two National League titles before handing over the reins to Fr Tom Fogarty in 1994.