TJ Ryan facing the executioner

Two managers patrol the Mackey Stand sideline this evening, both haunted by the sense they are on borrowed time.

However, there’s a distinction: Davy Fitzgerald’s head may be in stocks, but TJ Ryan’s rests on an executioner’s block.

In Clare, the jury that seemed so convinced Fitzgerald should be sent to the gallows has now retired for further consideration in the light of new evidence: Dónal Óg Cusack’s appointment and Podge Collin’s return to the panel. News this past week of Paul Kinnerk’s decision to link up with Fitzgerald has further muddied the conviction with which so many had damned the 2013 All-Ireland-winning manager.