Derry delight, but no quick return for Bradley

DERRY provided the most compelling evidence for coach Damien Cassidy’s claim that the squad is singing off the same hymn sheet as they clung on with 14 men to survive this stern All-Ireland SFC qualifier (Round 2) test from Westmeath on Saturday.

However, Cassidy was quick and unambiguous in his assertion afterwards that Paddy Bradley would not be adding to the camaraderie in time for next weekend’s third round tie.

Asked afterwards if there was any chance of talisman Bradley returning to the squad for next week Cassidy replied, “None whatsoever. We (the management) made a call based on training and the players performances in challenge matches and it was a football decision and Paddy (Bradley) decided to leave the panel based on that. There was no fall-out and no disagreement and it was very amicable, that’s why when you hear these stories it is very frustrating. I made a football decision, Paddy didn’t agree with it and he decided to walk. If Paddy decides he is going to commit to us again we are certainly not going to turn our back on him,” explained the coach.