Mayo's preparations for the All-Ireland football final have been overshadowed by the death of former player Greg Maher after a long illness at the age of just 49.

Greg lined out at wing forward in the 1989 All-Ireland final, which Mayo lost to Cork, after making a big impression off the bench in the semi-final win over Tyrone. His older brother Sean also lined out at midfield in the final, partnering Liam McHale. Four years earlier, the powerfully-built Maher had partnered Michael Fitzmaurice in the middle of the field when Mayo claimed the All-Ireland minor title.

Greg and Sean's father Tom hurled for Galway before moving to Claremorris where he was a garda superintendent. Greg followed in his footsteps by becoming a Garda himself, and had been based in Dublin for the last number of years.

"He played at all levels of inter-county football for Mayo with his brother, Sean, and Greg was regarded as one of the outstanding midfielders and half forwards of his generation," Mayo GAA chairman Mike Connelly said.

"We extend our deepest sympathy to the Maher family on their loss."

The deceased was present in MacHale Park for the 2013 Connacht final where the Mayo team which won the 1988 and 1989 Connacht SFC titles were introduced to the crowd at half-time.

Funeral Arrangements are as follows:

Reposing in his home (Warren Close) from 2pm to 8pm today, Friday & Saturday. Removal on Sunday to arrive in St. Mochta's Church, Porterstown for 2pm Requiem Mass, followed by burial in The Cemetery of the Assumption, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow. Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, to Blanchardstown Hospital Society & St. Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown.

The Mayo team that reached the All Ireland SFC final in 1989. Greg Maher is pictured 1st from left on the front row.

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