Crofton chosen as new Kildare manager

Former player John Crofton is to succeed the departed Padraig Nolan as manager of the Kildare footballers for next season.

Nolan ended his three-year term as Lilywhites boss in July and it was confirmed today that Crofton, the leading local candidate, will take over the reins.

A former intercounty defender, Crofton was a selector during Mick O'Dwyer's successful reign, which saw Kildare lift Leinster SFC titles in both 1998 and 2000.

Most recently Crofton led Kildare club Round Towers to the 2003 Leinster club final, and he has already pencilled in 1997 All-star defender Davy Dalton as one of his selectors for 2006.