Monaghan will ‘get behind’ new boss McEnaney

MONAGHAN secretary Sean McKenna is confident the senior squad will row in behind new football boss Eamonn McEnaney, despite the disillusionment amongst some players over the controversial end to Seamus McEnaney’s reign in charge.

Eamonn McEnaney’s three-year term, which is subject to a review after the second year, was rubber-stamped on Monday night and McKenna revealed the board are pleased with the appointment.

He said: “We’re very happy with the appointment. We went through the proper process and it was felt that Eamonn’s candidacy was the best to come forward.

“I’m confident that all the players will be behind him. He is very passionate about Monaghan football and that has not changed over the years.”

McKenna believes McEnaney’s stint in charge of Louth between 2006 and 2009 will benefit him as he assumes the Monaghan managerial reins, and expressed satisfaction with the backroom team of in selectors Stephen McGinnity and Declan Smyth, and trainer Colin O’Hare.

Meanwhile, Seamus McEnaney is remaining tight-lipped about his intentions after he was officially nominated for the vacant Meath post.

McEnaney’s name is one of 13 on the official shortlist to succeed the outgoing Eamonn O’Brien in the Royal County hot-seat.

McEnaney said last night: “I’m aware that I have been nominated and Meath is a high-profile job.

“There are some top names also linked with the position and I’m flattered to find my name in such a high-calibre field.

* Joe Dooley was formally ratified as Offaly senior hurling manager for a fourth year at a County Board meeting in Tullamore last night.

Joe will continue to be assisted by selectors Pat McLoughney and Brendan Kelly, while Francis Forde of Galway will join the management team as a coach.