Conor Mortimer: The thriller still missing from military modern football

Ex-Mayo star Conor Mortimer was the archetypal marquee forward, something he thinks is still lacking in today's game.

Conor Mortimer celebrates a Mayo goal against Galway by lifting his jersey to reveal his tribute to Michael Jackson.  Picture: Ray McManus / SPORTSFILE

Sixteen years ago, Conor Mortimer rang this writer the morning of the Connacht final.

After breaking his hand three months earlier, Mortimer was returning to full fitness and was named on the bench for the clash against Galway in Salthill. But he had a plan. “If I score a goal today, I’m going to have a celebration. Can you let a photographer know?”