Crawford to captain Meath

Nigel Crawford has been announced as captain of Meath's senior footballers for their upcoming Championship campaign.

Crawford is the Royals' last remaining link with the All-Ireland winning team of 1999, who beat Cork in the decider.

The 30-year-old midfielder takes on the captaincy role after it was alternated by manager Eamon O'Brien during Meath's National League campaign which saw them finish fourth in Division 2.

From the St Peter's, Dunboyne club, Crawford helped Meath to a 0-20 to 1-11 challenge match win over Galway last night at Summerhill, with O'Brien's side putting in a particularly strong second half performance.

Meath begin their search for a first Leinster SFC title since 2001 against Offaly at O'Moore Park on May 23.