FORMER Down forward Danny Hughes has given his backing to John McEntee as the next Down manager should James McCartan call it a day.
With question marks hanging over the future of McCartan, who has been in the role since he guided them to an All-Ireland final in his first season back in 2010, Hughes, writing in his column in today's Irish News, has endorsed the credentials of the Armagh and Crossmaglen legend.
The former Armagh player, along with Gareth O'Neill, guided his native club to two All-Ireland titles and three consecutive Ulster Club Championships in their three years at the helm.
Writing in his weekly Irish News column today, Hughes said: "The general consensus in Down will think that the management have taken the team as far as they can and should now be thanked for their contribution, indeed proud, that for a short time, they brought Down to the top table to dine," said the former Allstar.
"Down should look towards Armagh for replacements if vacancies were to arise. Who would doubt the ability of Tony McEntee and Gareth O'Neill?
"These men are proven All-Ireland winning managers who embody the spirit of style and commitment which great counties such as Down have been associated in the past.
"If the Down Committee and fans wish to buy into a new ideal and forget about the glory days, perhaps it is time to go outside for this and in the Crossmaglen duo, I think the county could find a suitable alternative to the home-grown manager," he said.
Hughes has also backed Mickey Harte, who has come under fire in the wake of Tyrone's early championship exit at the hands of Armagh, but believes that a new face may bring the spark back to the Red Hands.
"For me, Mickey deserves to be given the opportunity to pick his own time for leaving management, however a fresh approach would rejuvenate a limited squad."