John Cleary reshapes Cork backroom team with Gavin Gallagher set for coaching role

There are two further changes to the backroom teal with Mallow man Terry O'Brien appointed goalkeeping coach, while St Finbarr's Dylan Byrne will join the strength and conditioning team

2027 will be John Cleary's seventh season in charge of the Cork footballers. Pic: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Cork GAA has confirmed that Castlehaven's Gavin Gallagher is set to join John Cleary's senior football management team ahead of the 2027 season.

Gallagher will come on board as coach and selector, subject to ratification at the next meeting of Cork County Committee in November.

His appointment forms part of a number of changes to the Rebels' backroom setup as preparations begin for another campaign under Cleary's stewardship.

In addition to Gallagher's arrival, Mallow man Terry O'Brien has been appointed as goalkeeping coach, while St Finbarr's Dylan Byrne will join the strength and conditioning team.

Gallagher is one of the most highly regarded coaches in the county, having enjoyed significant success with Castlehaven in recent years.

O'Brien's appointment sees him take responsibility for the development and preparation of Cork's goalkeepers, while Byrne will strengthen the athletic performance side of the setup as the county aims to maximise standards both on and off the pitch.

Announcing the changes, Cork GAA wished all three men success in their new roles with the senior footballers.

The latest appointments also bring an end to the involvement of several members of the previous backroom team.

Cork GAA paid tribute to Kevin Murray, Paddy O'Shea and Cian Sisk, each of whom is departing their role with the Rebels ahead of the new season.

In a statement, the county board thanked the trio for their significant contribution to the team during their time involved with the senior football setup and wished them well in their future endeavours.

Ratification of the appointments is expected to take place at the next meeting of Cork County Committee in November, after which the new-look backroom team will begin work in earnest ahead of the forthcoming campaign.