Fergal McCann, football coach to Tyrone's 2005 and 2008 All-Ireland winning teams, has passed away aged 47 following a long illness. 

The Augher clubman was part of Mickey Harte's backroom team between 2005 and 2014 and also worked as a Games Promotion Officer for Tyrone GAA.

"Tyrone Gaels everywhere were saddened to hear the untimely death today of former Tyrone senior football team coach and trainer Fergal McCann," Tyrone GAA announced in a statement.

"Fergal was an integral part of Mickey Harte's Tyrone senior management team and worked alongside Mickey and his fellow Augher team-mate Tony Donnelly from 2005 until 2014.

"During that period Fergal helped Tyrone win two All Ireland football titles in 2005 and 2008 as well as three Ulster Senior Championship titles. Fergal played in goals for his beloved Augher and went on to manage and train Augher, as well as helping to manage various youth teams over many years.

"Fergal was employed as a Games Promotion Officer, working within schools for Tyrone GAA from July 2003 until the start of his illness and was one of the longest-serving current schools coaches. Fergal loved the GAA and he went on to manage and coach several club sides both within Tyrone and outside the county."

16 August 2008; Tyrone's Joseph McMahon celebrates with team trainer Fergal McCann after the match. GAA Football All-Ireland Senior Champoinship Quarter-Final, Dublin v Tyrone, Croke Park, Dublin. Picture credit: Stephen McCarthy / SPORTSFILE *** Local Caption *** Fergal McCann

Tyrone Chairperson Michael Kerr described McCann as a "giant of the GAA" in the Red Hand County.

'For one so young to have achieved so much is testament to a great Gael.  Fergal was a true gentleman in life even in the white hot heat of championship battles.

"A very private person, the manner in which he bore his illness over the last twelve months marks the magnitude of the man.

"His legacy is not alone the two All-Ireland winning teams but the influence he had on all those who had the privilege to be coached and managed by him, in clubs and schools.

"While our loss is massive, it is insignificant compared to that of his family and close friends.”