Mike Finnerty
CROSSMOLINA native Stephen Rochford is now the firm favourite to be the next Mayo senior football team manager after James Horan ruled himself out of the running for the position yesterday (Monday).
The deadline for nominations for the vacant Mayo post is next Sunday, November 1, and Rochford (37) could yet turn out to be the only candidate who allows his name to go forward for consideration.
Former Mayo boss Horan revealed his intentions in two newspaper columns yesterday to end speculation about his interest in returning to the high-profile post.
“When the vacancy came up, I thought about it but decided very quickly that I wouldn’t be letting my name go forward,” wrote the 43-year-old.
“I was very privileged to hold the position for four years and work with a brilliant bunch of players. I thoroughly enjoyed that honour and that position.
“But I’m working with different teams in different codes, enjoying learning more about coaching and have a bit of catching up to do in everyday life too.
“I did media work this year and enjoyed that. I’m enjoying learning stuff about our games, and about different games.
“Mayo GAA and the supporters — they’re a fantastic bunch, really. And there are great players that are looking to drive on.
“If we had the support structures in place to match that ambition, then great things are possible. Hopefully 2016 will see Mayo driving on.”
Meanwhile, there were unconfirmed reports in two national newspapers last weekend that Stephen Rochford is trying to persuade Armagh All-Ireland winner, Tony McEntee, to join his potential Mayo back-room team.
McEntee is currently managing the St Brigid’s senior club team in Dublin, and is being touted as a potential number two for the current Corofin manager.
Donie Buckley (who has coached Mayo for the last three seasons), Ballinrobe native Maurice Horan (who is based in Tralee) and Mayo’s strength and conditioning coach last season, Barry Solan, have also been linked with Rochford’s back-room team list.
Former Irish rugby international, Gavin Duffy, could also have a strength and conditioning role were Rochford to become the next Mayo boss.
