Kerry board likely to re-appoint O'Connor

KERRY County Board are likely to ratify the re-appointment of manager Jack O'Connor at their monthly meeting in Tralee on Tuesday night.

The two-year term of O'Connor and his selectors, Johnny Culloty and Ger O'Keeffe, ended with defeat to Tyrone in the All-Ireland final last month.

Selector Ger O'Keeffe told Radio Kerry Sport yesterday: "There is a lot of speculation. We have met since the All-Ireland and we have discussed the match. I suppose the County Board have to decide whether they want us to continue as a management team. If we are approached by the Board we will seriously consider it.

"Ultimately the delegates have their say. We got a two-year term and our term is up. We will just have to await developments."

Meanwhile, the four quarter-finals of the County SFC go ahead this weekend with the clash of Dr Crokes and An Ghaeltacht on Sunday topping the bill. County stars, Colm Cooper, Eoin Brosnan and Kieran Cremin, will do battle with the Ó Sé brothers, Darragh, Tomas and Marc along with Dara Ó Cinnéide.

Meanwhile, Marty McElkennon and Damian Cassidy have been appointed manager and assistant manager of the Cavan Senior & U-21 teams for a two-year period. McElkennon takes over from Eamon Coleman who vacated the position for health reasons.

McElkennon is one of the best young coaches, having served in that capacity in Derry and Fermanagh and the Tyrone minors. He also helped steer Errigan Ciaran to a Tyrone league and championship double.

Cassidy is a former Derry player and has won minor and senior All-Ireland medals with the county. He also subsequently served as a Derry selector with Eamon Coleman.

Cavan County Board chairman George Cartwright said McElkennon's appointment will be welcomed by the Gaels of the county.

"I'm looking forward to working with Martin and Damien. They will be very good for Cavan. I would also like to thank Eamon Coleman for his efforts during his 18 months involvement with us.

"He made a major contribution to Cavan football, instilling great levels of discipline and determination into both our under 21 and senior teams."