O’Shea had no doubts about accepting Kerry job

DEFINITELY not to be recommended — the idea of taking on the management of a successful inter-county team, while in the throes of a prolonged club championship campaign.

Pat O’Shea quickly realised the implications of his dual role when Dr Crokes qualified for the All-Ireland final. Further complicated by a draw, it all coincided with the Allianz League reaching the critical stage in terms of qualification for the play-offs and even survival in the premier grouping.

However, as difficult as it proved at the time to nail down the position (because of his coaching duties with the Munster Council), O’Shea never had any doubts about taking on the Kerry job, or of living up to the high standard set by Jack O’Connor. It wasn’t merely difficult balancing the needs of both sets of players, but a case of ‘everybody suffering.’