Football

Ciaran Meenagh joins Down backroom team

Former Derry interim boss Ciaran Meenagh has joined Conor Laverty's Down backroom team
Former Derry interim boss Ciaran Meenagh has joined Conor Laverty's Down backroom team

FORMER Derry interim manager Ciaran Meenagh has joined Conor Laverty’s Down backroom team. 

Laverty and Meenagh have a long association, with the pair having worked together in 2018 during Damian McErlain’s final year in charge of Derry.

Donegal All-Ireland winner Jim McGuinness was involved with Down in a coaching capacity this year but, following his return to the Tir Chonaill hot seat, the Mournemen moved quickly to secure the services of the much sought after Meenagh.

The Tyrone man – who had also been linked to a role with his native county – was named Derry interim manager for this year's Ulster final victory over Armagh after Rory Gallagher stepped aside when allegations of domestic abuse emerged days before the provincial decider.

Meenagh remained in charge for the rest of the campaign, as Derry saw off Cork in the All-Ireland quarter-final before losing a thrilling semi-final clash with Kerry.

He had been widely tipped to remain in charge of the Oak Leafs, but turned down the role to concentrate on managing his native Loughmacrory and his teaching career at St Colm's, Draperstown.

A statement from Down GAA welcomed Meenagh’s addition to the Mourne management team.

“Ciaran brings considerable experience in college, club and inter-county coaching and management, and had success most recently with Derry as an Ulster championship winning coach and manager. Ciaran will now join the team that includes Conor Laverty, Martin Clarke, Mickey Donnelly and Declan Morgan."