Davy Fitzgerald steps down ‘in best interests of Clare hurling’

Davy Fitzgerald last night stepped down as Clare manager despite efforts by the county executive, sponsor Pat O’Donnell and several players to persuade him to stay on.

Currently holidaying in South Carolina, the 45-year-old was believed to be hurting having taken the decision but accepted it was the right thing to do “in the best interests of Clare hurling”.

Following the Irish Examiner’s news on Tuesday Fitzgerald was set to announce his resignation, he was contacted by chairman Joe Cooney, O’Donnell as well as players who wanted him to confront the issues brought forward by some prominent members of the panel who wished for a change of management.