Kingdom’s ‘secret weapon’ Flanagan opts to call it a day

HE HAS been described as Kerry’s secret weapon, but physical trainer Pat Flanagan was up front and direct yesterday in his decision to walk away from the “buzz” of inter-county football after three years.

Jack O’Connor did many shrewd things in charge of Kerry, but appointing Flanagan to prepare the squad for Championship football was one of his most inspired decisions. Testimonials from players all arrive at the same conclusion — Flanagan innovated and made training interesting, enjoyable and most importantly, beneficial.

The three-year programme Flanagan put in place reached a zenith on September 17, as Kerry ran roughshod over a bewildered Mayo.