O'Dwyer to stay on in Laois

It was confirmed this afternoon that Mick O'Dwyer is to stay on as manager of the Laois footballers for another year.

The Kerry native, who was admittedly frustrated by the midlanders' second half collapse in last month's All-Ireland SFC quarter-final against Armagh, met with Laois County Board officials on Thursday to discuss his immediate plans.

O'Dwyer informed his namesake - the county's Football Board chairman Joe O'Dwyer - last night of his intention to stay in charge for the 2006 season.

O'Dwyer, who led Kerry to a record eight All-Ireland titles last century, was appointed as Laois manager in late 2002 and promptly led the county to an historic Leinster title in 2003.

He failed to inspire his young side last season, watching them dumped out of the qualifiers, but 2005's run to the All-Ireland's last-eight has obviously given the legendary manager hope for the future.

Meanwhile, after Laois hurling manager Paudie Butler's resignation during the week, the county's Hurling Board are due to meet on Monday week to discuss his likely replacement.