Health problems force Madden to quit

Corner forward Kevin Madden has been forced to pull out of Antrim's championship panel on medical advice.

The Portglenone clubman confirmed in a statement today that he will play no part in the Saffrons' Ulster and All-Ireland SFC run which begins next Sunday against Fermanagh.

The 28-year-old attacker said: "It is regrettable that due to health reasons I have decided to withdraw from Antrim's championship panel for the forthcoming Ulster SFC and All-Ireland series.

"It is well documented that five years ago I underwent open-heart surgery. I would like to stress that whilst this recent development is one which is impinging upon my immediate ability to play at a competitive, high intensity level, it has in no way any implications for my everyday health.

"I cannot say any more than that at the moment, as I am awaiting further tests which will help me explore what options I may have available to me."

Madden, who works with the Lisburn County Council as a sports development officer, had surgery to repair a leaking valve in his heart in 2001. He returned to inter-county football a year later.

Having undergone surgery on a cruciate knee ligament injury, he was back training ahead of schedule last January but this latest setback looks like bringing a premature end to the 1999 All-Ireland 'B' medal winner's career.