John Cleary is set to take the role of Cork senior football manager on a full-time basis after confirmation yesterday that Keith Ricken has stepped down due to health reasons.

Ricken was appointed to the Rebel County hotseat last October but missed the conclusion of his team’s Allianz Football League due to illness and it saw Cleary step in and the latter would be in charge for the Leesiders’ four championship outings against Kerry, Louth, Limerick and Dublin.

It was confirmed yesterday that Cleary is now set to be ratified at the next county committee meeting on a three-year term.

“The county owes Keith a considerable debt for his selfless contribution, despite his off-field challenges,” Cork GAA Chairman Marc Sheehan stated.

“Given his record in MTU and at club level, we have no doubt that he will continue to make a sizeable contribution to Gaelic Games in the county. His reputation as a leader of young men will be further enhanced from his time here.”

Cork GAA CEO Kevin O’Donovan also thanked Ricken for his services to the team. 

“It is a testament to Keith’s integrity that in the two most recent management roles in Cork, namely U20 from early 2019 and Senior from late 2021, he turned difficult situations around thanks to his sheer force of nature.

“His ability to build great teams both on and off the field leaves Cork football in a good place, considering the challenges now faced in restoring it to its rightful place. We thank Caroline, Ava and Max for their selfless contribution also.”

Cork GAA Statement - Keith Ricken steps down as Cork Senior Football Manager with John Cleary taking over full time. Read more here: https://t.co/TeZ6vAJu7O pic.twitter.com/lv35mUZM6H

— Cork GAA (@OfficialCorkGAA) July 22, 2022

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