Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
PATH CLEARED FOR COMEBACK
THE way has been paved for James Horan’s return as Mayo manager with Mike Solan after pulling out of the race.
The pair were the only two nominated by the clubs of the county for the role and while Horan was favourite to land the job, it now appears to be a foregone conclusion.
A statement from the Mayo County Board confirmed that under-20 manager Solan (below), despite lining up a backroom team that included former Tyrone footballer Enda Mcginley and ex-cork and Offaly coach Billy Sheehan among others, had withdrawn.
A statement read: “We would like to thank
Mike for putting his name forward for the role and look forward to seeing him involved with
Mayo GAA in the future.
“The officers of
Mayo GAA will now meet with
James
Horan to discuss his management team and plans for 2019.” The same statement also included comment from Solan though no reason as to why he pulled out was provided.
Solan said: “Today, I have informed the Mayo county board that I am withdrawing my name from the nomination process. “I would like to thank everyone who helped me in this process and I would like to wish the Mayo senior team every success in 2019 and beyond.”
It now remains to be seen how discussions between Horan and the board play out, with the parties having endured a difficult relationship during the Ballintubber man’s previous four-year reign, which ended in 2014. However, with a return for Horan favoured among the players, it appears most likely that he will be reappointed and there may even be a possibility of Solan forming part of his backroom team.