Former All Star Ciaran McDonald has joined up with the Mayo footballers backroom team for the 2020 season.
The 44-year-old has been out of the inter-county scene for over a decade but has a wealth of experience from playing in three All-Ireland finals.
Speaking after the announcement McDonald said, "I am really delighted to have been invited by James to join his back-room team.
"I really admire the work being done behind the scenes and the highly professional way in which James is moving it forward. I am excited about both the approach and potential of these talented players over the coming years.
🚨 Breaking News - Mayo GAA County Board & James Horan welcome the appointment of Ciaran McDonald to Mayo Senior Coaching Team.
➡️ https://t.co/IUvEfMabPW— Mayo GAA (@MayoGAA) December 8, 2019
"We saw some great new young players coming onto the field this year and there is a good pipeline of talent coming through thanks to the good work being done at underage and academy level throughout the county. I hope to add to that and will assist in every way I can. I’m really relishing the opportunity to be back involved with the Mayo Senior Football team once again.”
Connacht Football Championship Semi-Final 19/6/2005Roscommon vs Mayo
Ciaran McDonald clears for Mayo
Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Donall Farmer
Meanwhile, the Mayo manager James Horan said, "he brings a wealth of experience, vision and skill to our coaching set up and this will also fit in very well with the development phase we are currently in with this senior squad.
"Eleven years on from his last senior appearance for Mayo, Ciaran is still being acknowledged nationally as one of the finest exponents of the modern era. He is also a player’s player – someone who made his own opportunities on the field of play, creating some outstanding moments and demonstrating great flair, fitness, endurance, and individual talent.
"I know he will bring all that innate ability and commitment to this present squad. It will be a welcomed and valued addition to the excellent team of committed people that are already driving this team forward and achieving great things."
