Former Tyrone goalkeeper Pascal McConnell says he's surprised by the decision not to grant current manager Mickey Harte an extension to his term.

Harte had his request for a one-year extension rejected by club delegates at last Tuesday night's county board meeting in Garvaghey, which means the Errigal Ciaran man's term finishes at the end of next season.

McConnell, who won three All-Ireland SFC titles under Harte, feels that success on the field next year will determine whether or not the longest serving manager in the game continues in his post.

"Mickey is no stranger to challenges throughout his Tyrone career. Going beyond with the next manager, it'll certainly be a poisoned chalice I feel," McConnell told the Strabane Chronicle.

"I don't think it'll be the end of things, I think there'll be a twist there at the end of it. Maybe further success will probably determine whether Mickey will stay on.

"It's obviously unfortunate for Mickey, especially with the way things are coming along, it's come as a bit of a surprise. Things seem to be well in motion on the next quest for the All-Ireland and next year will obviously be a big year as well."

He added: "I think at the start of the year, considering the development of this Tyrone team an Ulster title is something we would have taken. Tyrone are sitting in a happy position, the transition's now over, there seems to be a settled team."

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