Leitrim manager Shane Ward has labelled the transfer of Paul Brennan to Donegal as a "real negative for football in Leitrim".

Speaking to The Irish Times, Ward compared the Melvin Gaels clubman's Bundoran switch to the controversial transfer of Cavan's Seanie Johnston to Kildare three years ago.

"This is a major move after the Seánie Johnston episode and it could set a new precedent for just changing counties," he remarked.

"It would have been common knowledge in Donegal that this was happening and I know that because I'm from there.

"I can confirm that this had been mooted between Paul and Bundoran, and with Donegal, from early on after Leitrim's exit from last summer's championship."

Brennan's departure is a big blow to Ward who will also be without the services of key attacker Emlyn Mulligan who has taken a year out to go travelling.

"I would have been aware of the situation with Emlyn from very early and he was up front and honest about travelling for the year.

"I knew from quite early on what was happening with Paul but had tried to persuade him of otherwise, but there was no swaying him after a number of attempts. I contacted him on numerous occasions and we had a number of different meetings.

"It is frustrating - Emlyn I understand and I look forward to his return, but with Paul I am very disappointed. I see it as a huge danger to our game in general, and it's a real negative for football in Leitrim."

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