Seán Kelly: How ‘weak’ counties can buy into second tier championship

I have written on these pages on more than one occasion regarding the need for reform of the All-Ireland Football Championship, writes Seán Kelly

Previously, I advocated playing the provincial championships as they are, but with a subsequent two-tier All-Ireland series involving the Sam Maguire Cup top 16 and Páidí Ó Sé Cup bottom 16 (plus London and New York, if they wish). My suggestions were well received by the likes of Dara Ó Cinnéide, Jim McGuinness, and Joe Brolly.

Recently, the GAA published its own proposal on a revised format of the All-Ireland Senior Championship. When I first heard about a group stage for the last (best) eight teams, I was dubious, wondering what this would do for the weaker, less successful counties? Nothing, I figured.