Gary Connaughton is refusing to rule out the prospect of Dessie Dolan playing for Westmeath again.

Dolan looks to have played his last game for the Lake County after turning down an invitation from manager Pat Flanagan to return to the county panel after a long All-Ireland club campaign with Garrycastle, but former All Star goalkeeper Connaughton expects to see him return in the future.

"I haven't been talking to Dessie as I've been busy with exams (in Athlone IT), but from what I've heard he hasn't officially retired," the Westmeath captain told hoganstand.com.

"He's after having a long 18 months with Garrycastle and probably just needs a break. He's still only 32 and has at least another two years left in him at this level. I wouldn't write him off yet. If he has the hunger to come back, he'll come back; if doesn't have the hunger, he won't.

"Dessie is a brilliant footballer and still has a lot to offer. He's a teacher, which helps when you're an inter-county footballer, and looks after himself very well. However, it's looking like we'll be without him for the championship and it's time now for the younger lads who did so well in the league to step up to the mark." Tweet

Most Read Stories