James Horan has returned to the helm with Mayo's senior footballers after being ratified to a four-year term at tonight’s county board meeting.

Horan previously managed the Westerners between 2011 and 2014, reaching two All-Ireland SFC finals and winning four Connacht titles during his stint

The 2014 All-Ireland semi-final replay loss to Kerry looked to mark the Ballintubber man’s last game in charge but he’s now back in the hot-seat.

The county board confirmed tonight that Horan would succeed Stephen Rochford, who stepped down last month, with Derek Walsh also set to return as hurling boss for 2019.

The path for Horan’s return was sealed last week when U20 manager Mike Solan withdrew his name as a candidate, leaving a sole front runner in the race.

Ballycastle's Daniel Forde, Martin Barrett (Kiltane) and James Burke of Ardnaree Sarsfields have all been confirmed in the new senior managerial set-up.

A statment realeased by Horan tonight read: "I am delighted to be involved with Mayo and am really looking forward to getting on the field with the players. All clubs (Senior/Intermediate/Junior) within Mayo will be contacted immediately seeking suggestions of players that may have the potential Technical/Tactical/Physical/Mental attributes required for the Intercounty game.

"There has been a coaching movement in Mayo over last number of years that has been staggering in its progression. In conjunction with Clubs & Divisional Boards we have seen huge advances with clubs across the county driving very high standards. That is something I want to be involved with, and help ensure that progress continues. It is busy but very exciting times in Mayo GAA & I cannot wait to get started."

At tonight's Co Board meeting James Horan was ratified for a 4 year term as manger of the Mayo Senior Football team, along with his management team of Daniel Forde (@ballycgaa), Martin Barrett (@KiltaneGAA), & James Burke (@ArdnareeSarsGaa). #mayogaa #gaa

— Mayo GAA (@MayoGAA) October 4, 2018

 

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