Jim wields axe on backroom team

The Donegal County Board have confirmed manager Jim McGuinness’s intention “to make changes” to his backroom team — a move that saw assistant manager Rory Gallagher and two other members leave the set-up.

It was unclear when the news broke on Tuesday if McGuinness removed the video analyst Maxi Curran, kit man Francie Friel and Gallagher from their roles, or if they made their respective decisions themselves.

However, the statement indicates the change was McGuinness’s call.

The statement read: “CLG Dhún na nGall were informed this (Tuesday) morning by senior football team manager Jim McGuinness of his intention to make changes in his management and support team.

“He subsequently confirmed that Rory Gallagher and Maxi Curran will not be involved in the Donegal management team for the 2014 season.

“CLG Dhún na nGall wish to acknowledge the immense contribution made by Rory, Maxi and Francie to our success over recent years, and wish them well in the future.”

None of the protagonists were available for comment yesterday but 1992 All-Ireland winner Manus Boyle was as surprised as anyone to hear of the departure of Gallagher.

“It came as a bolt from the blue,” Boyle said. “I know from talking to a lot of the players over the last three years that Rory was certainly a big part of the set-up and was very passionate about football in Donegal.

“I’m sure whoever Jim makes the call to will consider the position as it’s not one too many would turn down. What annoys me and perhaps it’s something in our DNA, is how we can’t keep these things quiet.”