Pierson boost for Cavan

Gowna forward Gerald Pierson has returned to training with the Cavan senior football team after seven months out with a cruciate knee ligament injury.

The 25-year-old, who missed the Breffni men's entire 2005 championship campaign after injuring himself in a challenge match against Dublin in May, returned to the fold before Christmas.

Pierson is expected back on the field for Marty McElkennon's side in February or early March.

Cavan Gaels defender Darren Rabbitte is also back with the county panel after suffering a similar cruciate injury to Pierson's against Mayo in July.

Cavan take on Fermanagh in their opening Dr McKenna Cup Section A tie this Sunday (Breffni Park, 2pm).