Eye injury rules out Garvey

Down defender Conor Garvey has been ruled out for the season after suffering a serious eye injury in a work-related accident.

Garvey, who is a mechanic, had an operation several weeks ago to remove fragments of steel from his eye.

Mourne manager James McCartan last night revealed there are concerns over the Mayobridge man’s eyesight and that he will not be returning to a football field any time soon.

“The most important thing is to ensure his eyesight will be ok,” said McCartan. . “He is not with us at the moment and he is certainly not allowed any contact in training for three months at least. But really, the priority for Conor is to make sure his eyesight is correct. ”

The unlucky Garvey missed last year’s Ulster final against Donegal due to suspension. He only made one brief appearance in this year’s league campaign as a substitute against Donegal before the effects of a niggling ankle injury took its toll.