Lee Keegan thinks Barry McCambridge and John Maher are the two leading contenders for Footballer of the Year.

Keegan, a winner of the individual award in 2016, predicted in his RTÉ column: "For me, the strongest two candidates are Barry McCambridge, a revelation in defence for Armagh, and John Maher, a tower of strength around the middle for Galway.

"Forwards need not apply this year," he added in a reference to the impact of packed defences this summer.

Reflecting on last Sunday's All-Ireland SFC final, the former Mayo star felt Armagh's substitutions were the difference.

"In the end, Armagh's bench strength was a key factor. When Rob Finnerty was forced off early, Johnny Heaney came in but struggled to influence the game. Sean Kelly was sent for in the second half but still doesn't look like he's moving freely," he continued.

"Compare that to the impact Armagh got from their subs - 'Soupie' Campbell setting up the goal in his first involvement (deliberate, I reckon) and Oisín O'Neill landing a massive score at a vital moment in the second half.

"They fell over the line in the end. Too many Galway shooters were overcome by the jitters on the biggest day and Armagh were let off the hook."

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