Fermanagh’s former All Star Owens to undergo heart surgery

FERMANAGH’S two-time All Star Barry Owens is to undergo heart surgery. However, sources stressed his condition is not “life-threatening nor career-threatening” and can be corrected with a medical procedure.

Fermanagh GAA chiefs expect the player to make a speedy recovery and admit he could return for the Ulster championship.

In a statement issued last night Erne County secretary Deirdre Donnelly said: “Fermanagh GAA can confirm reports that Fermanagh’s Barry Owens is due to undergo a minor heart operation in the coming weeks which will rule him out of competitive football for the next few months.

“We all wish Barry a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back in competitive action.

She also appealed to the media and public to “give Barry and his family privacy”.

The 25-year-old Owens won an All Star in 2004 as he helped his side to an All-Ireland semi-final and again in 2006.

Ironically Marty McGrath, a Fermanagh team-mate of Owens, was diagnosed with a heart complaint last year. The midfielder who underwent two successful operations to repair a heart defect, subsequently regained full fitness.

However, former Antrim star Kevin Madden was forced to retire two years ago due a heart problem.

Owens is just one of a number of Ernemen likely to miss the opening of the Allianz National League season.

Ciarán O’Reilly is still struggling with a knee problem and skipper Tom Brewster is also a fitness doubt. Fermanagh begin their NFL campaign against Leitrim on February 3 and will play their home games at Lisnaskea due the renovation of Brewster Park.