Ex-Down star reveals big change he had to make for professional football

Fascinating!

Instead, the Newry born man is doing his best to break into the Hoops team, scoring three goals this term already after an impressive brace in the champions' 4-1 victory over Drogheda United.

McGovern won the Tailteann cup in 2024 as part of the Down senior team. The striker admits, however, his first year playing soccer was a bit of a culture shock as he adjusts not only to a different sport but the demands of being a full-time, professional athlete.

McGovern revealed that the biggest demand of his professional football career was to lose weight. He said: "It was a bit of a transitioning phase to slim down a wee bit in the upper body. Gaelic players can be top-heavy. So I had to slim down, just to get sharper on my feet".

"It was obviously a transitioning phase, but I've enjoyed full-time professional football and hopefully there's much more to come. I've never played professional football before so it's about coming in and getting into the best shape possible".

"There's pressure - it's Shamrock Rovers - the biggest club in Ireland and I think everyone knew that I needed to meet the standards here and adjust to the demands and playing style".

The Ballyholland Harps club man has also hinted at a possible return to Gaelic football in the future.

He added: "It was a tough choice when I was coming through. Obviously I played Gaelic football the whole way up - but they respected my decision. It's not as if I'd gone off to work a job".

"I always keep in touch with the lads and always keep track of how Down are going. "Fingers crossed I'll have a long football career ahead of me, so I'm sure the door to return to the GAA will always be open".

Could the striker make a shock return to GAA?