Westmeath chairman Sean Sheridan has strongly refuted suggestions that the county is unhappy with Joe McQuillan's appointment as referee to Sunday's Leinster SFC final against Dublin.

The Cavan whistler has taken charge of several of Dublin's in-house practice games in the past and was criticised for some of the decisions he gave in their favour when they pipped Kerry in the 2011 All-Ireland final.

Rumours surfaced yesterday that Westmeath were considering objecting to McQuillan's appointment because of his association with the Dubs, but Sheridan insists they don't have an issue with him.

"We've no problem with Joe McQuillan. As a matter of fact, we are very happy with the appointment," the Tyrrellspass clubman told hoganstand.com

"He's a fine referee, he takes no nonsense and has taken charge of two All-Ireland finals as well as numerous other big games. Joe is one of the best around. He's going out there on Sunday to do as good a job as he can, just like any of the players. We wish him the best of luck."

Sheridan, who himself is a former inter-county match official, noted how Longford's Fergal Kelly had refereed challenge matches involving the Lake County before taking charge of their Leinster SFC quarter-final against Wexford.

"Counties are obliged to have an inter-county referee for challenge matches. Fergal Kelly refereed a couple of our challenge matches and I don't remember Wexford having a problem with that. It's the same for us with Joe McQuillan."

Despite being rank outsiders, Westmeath are expected to bring upwards of 20,000 supporters to Croke Park for what will be only their fourth Leinster SFC decider, and first in 11 years.

"There has been a great buzz around the place since we beat Meath in the semi-final. It should be a great occasion. Hopefully the lads can do the business now. I expect us to give a very good account of ourselves," he added.

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