Counihan agrees to new Cork term

Conor Counihan has accepted the offer of another two-year term from the Cork County Board, although he will be working with a much-changed backroom team next season.

Selectors Ger O'Sullivan, Terry O'Neill and Jim Nolan will not be continuing for a variety of reasons, including work commitments and the length of time they have already committed to these roles.

Counihan's decision to remain in charge means that 2013 will be his sixth season at the helm.

The 53-year-old's managerial tenure has already produced one All-Ireland SFC title, four Allianz League crowns, three Munster Championships and two McGrath Cups.

Counihan expressed his 'immense gratitude' to the departing O'Sullivan, O'Neill and Nolan for the phenomenal service they have given to Cork football, both under his management and under other managers before him.

Peadar Healy is the only selector who is remaining in place for next year. The Naomh Abán clubman has been working with Counihan in the Rebels' set-up since 2008.

The remainder of the new backroom tteam will be named in the coming weeks as Counihan plots the defence of Cork's Allianz League and Munster titles as well as a renewed challenge for the Sam Maguire Cup.

Cork lost to eventual All-Ireland champions Donegal at the semi-final stage in August. They will face Limerick in their Munster SFC opener next summer, with the winners meeting Clare in the semi-finals.

Commenting on the announcement, Cork GAA chairman Bob Ryan said: "We are delighted that Conor has decided to accept the offer of a further term, and we would like to thank Ger O'Sullivan, Terry O'Neill and Jim Nolan for their huge contribution to Cork GAA."