Andy McEntee quits Longford role just 21 days after being recommended

McEntee cited a lack of player availability as the reason for his decision to step down

Andy McEntee: 'I could not in good conscience continue in a role I do not believe I can deliver on.' Pic: Tom Beary/Sportsfile

Andy McEntee has stepped down as Longford senior football manager - just 21 days after he was recommended for the position.

The former Meath and Antrim manager, who assisted Monaghan this past season, cited a lack of player availability in a statement read out at a county board executive meeting on Saturday.

“Over recent weeks it has become clear to me that the level of player availability and commitment needed to build on this year’s promotion (from Division 4) is not in place at this time,” wrote McEntee.

“Players have their own reasons, and I respect that. But I could not in good conscience continue in a role I do not believe I can deliver on, and it is better for Longford that I make this decision now, so the county board has time to appoint a manager before the League.

“Thank you to Longford County Executive, the Selection Committee and the County Board for the confidence you placed in me. I wish Longford football every success.” 

The board added: “Longford GAA take this opportunity to thank Andy and wish him well in his future endeavours. Longford GAA will commence the process of identifying a manager for the Senior Football Team in the coming days.” 

Longford were the last of the 32 National Football League counties to appoint a manager after Mike Solan stepped down in August before taking up the Offaly position.

Before McEntee, former Roscommon star Frankie Dolan had spoken to the county board but after “careful consideration” chose not to allow his name go forward.

Longford will be drawn in either a Leinster SFC first round or quarter-final on Thursday. Collective inter-county training resumes on Friday.