Colm O’Rourke fears the new rules will lead to even more hand-passing in Gaelic football.

Writing in his Sunday Independent column ahead of the start of the Allianz Leagues next weekend, the Meath legend and former manager is concerned that goalkeepers playing out the field could result in the game being 'similar to last year, maybe worse.'

"From what I have seen so far there is a distinct possibility that there will be more hand-passing, not less," he stated.

"I think teams will hold the ball as much as possible to allow the goalkeeper to get forward and create an extra man. Similar to last year, except maybe worse as three forwards have to stand and watch this tennis, unable to cross the half-way line to put in a tackle.

"In some regards it could be a form of torture.”

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