Hayes to stick with Carlow

Liam Hayes is a man of his word - the two-time All-Ireland winning midfielder is to stay as in charge of Carlow's footballers despite his nomination for the position of Meath team manager.

Hayes, along with seven other candidates including present incumbent Sean Boylan (who is seeking a 24th year at the helm) were nominated ahead of last Monday's noon deadline as interested parties in the Royals' job.

A county board meeting this Monday in Navan is expected to reveal a definite list of nominations, with speculation mounting as to who might pull out. Dunboyne herbalist Boylan could yet step down before the interviewing process begins.

However, Hayes, currently on holiday in France, has ruled himself out because of his commitment to the Barrowsiders.

"It's flattering to be nominated but I gave my word to Carlow that I would be with them again next year and I have no intention of going back on it," he told the Irish Independent.

"I've got a great reaction from the Carlow players, the county board and the clubs, which I appreciate, so they can all rest assured I'll be staying.

"We've started something in Carlow and we'll be working hard to progress it next year.

"Obviously, it's a great honour to be considered by Meath, whom I played with for 12 years and enjoyed so many good times but when you give a commitment you don't go back on it."

The Meath county board are due to confirm their manager for the 2006 season at a meeting on September 5.