New term for Cork boss Counihan

Outgoing Cork senior football manager Conor Counihan has been offered another two-year term by the Cork County Board.

A statement from the board, following a meeting in Páirc Uí Chaoimh last night, said that they have 'decided to invite Conor Counihan to accept a further two-year term at the helm'.

Counihan had intimated that he was considering stepping down after the All-Ireland SFC semi-final defeat to eventual champions Donegal in August.

That Croke Park match marked the end of a two-year managerial term that was rubberstamped after the Rebels' last All-Ireland success in 2010.

But it now looks like he will stay in charge, with Cork Under-21 manager John Cleary reportedly joining the senior coaching set-up for 2013.

Counihan may opt to tweak his backroom team which included four selectors this past season - Jim Nolan, Terry O'Neill, Ger O'Sullivan and Peadar Healy.

Speaking at last night's meeting, Cork County Board chairman Bob Ryan said: "In view of the great success Conor Counihan has brought to this county over the past number of years, I feel this board, at the very least, should invite him to consider his position and let us know what he feels.

"I would suggest we invite him on the same basis - manager with the right to pick his own selectors."

Counihan's list of honours with the Rebels over the past five years includes one All-Ireland SFC title, four Allianz League crowns, two Munster Championships and two McGrath Cups.