McCarthy to continue in Limerick role

Speculation regarding Justin McCarthy's future as Limerick senior hurling manager was ended at last night's meeting of the Limerick Co Board.

Answering a question posed from the floor, Limerick Co Board chairman Liam Lenihan confirmed that McCarthy and his management team will see out their two-year term and guide the Shannonsiders through the 2010 season.

The Corkman, who enjoyed a first year in charge which saw Limerick reach the All-Ireland semi-finals, met recently with Lenihan, secretary Mike O'Riordan and treasurer Owen Hayes to review the 2009 campaign and chalk down the initial plans for next season.

McCarthy will be hoping that two of the more experienced members of the Limerick panel, Mark Foley and Ollie Moran, will commit for another year.

Speaking after last month's heavy semi-final loss to Tipperary, the Limerick boss spoke of a positive future for his adopted county.

"I said that I would be down for two years and I have enjoyed every moment of it so far - there is great interest in hurling in Limerick," said McCarthy.

"Limerick are in transition. Limerick have to look to the future and there are young lads coming through and there is not doubt that they will learn from that hardship and setback.

"Like all things in life, time erodes those things and next year Limerick will be back in the Championship."