Limerick relief at Kearns’ decision to stay on as manager

LIAM KEARNS’ decision to stay on as Limerick senior football manager has been greeted with relief in the county.

Muiris Gavin said he was delighted: “It is a huge boost for the players and all those involved,” said the Monaleen man.

“We can now get back to planning for the new season and every players is prepared to give it another huge effort. Hopefully, we can replay Liam’s loyalty to us by winning that coveted Munster title in 2005”.

The uncertainty arose following last January’s controversy over the dual player issue. The senior hurling selectors made it known they would not to consider any footballers who were not prepared to give first allegiance to hurling.

Kearns later claimed he would be reviewing his position at the end of the championship season. His stance was the result of commitments given to him following his reappointment for a third two-year term, in October 2003.

A few weeks ago Kearns’ name had been linked to the Galway job following John O’Mahony’s departure. However, a number of events influenced his decision to stay on, including the overwhelming support of players at a meeting in Adare last week.

In a statement issued on behalf of the team management, Kearns said he and his colleagues were embarrassed by the huge level of media attention their positions had attracted.

“At the beginning of the year we stated that we would be looking at our positions at the end of the season, due to issues which arose over the dual player controversy.

“In the five weeks since Limerick’s interest in the championship ended, we have spent a lot of time reflecting on the year gone by and have reached a decision to complete the second year of our two-year management term.

“One of the main factors which influenced us was the overwhelming support we got from the players. Another positive development has been the commitment of Limerick GAA officials to improving the overall structures for football within the county.”