This is not the news Mayo fans will want to hear.
Mayo look doomed to be hit with a double blow, as two star players are reportedly set to leave the panel, and will not be available for the 2023 season.
When you think of the Mayo squad, you think of names like Cillian O’Connor, Aidan O’Shea, Padraig O’Hora, and probably above all of them, Lee Keegan.
The 2015 Player of The Year has been a stalwart of the county team for a decade now, and consistently performs to the highest level possible on the pitch.
Even last year when Mayo struggled to find any run of form, Keegan was still bombing from defence, making things happen, and causing havoc for the opposition.
After leading his club Westport to their first ever senior championship title, it appears that his love for the club, and willingness to give them more time and focus, may be bad news for Mayo.
The Connaught Telegraph has reported that Keegan is set to announce his retirement in the coming days, and will not be available for selection next season.
This is the not the news that new manager Kevin McStay would have wanted to hear, as the flying half back has been vital to everything positive about the squad in recent years.
Although only 31 years old, and still with plenty to give, Keegan has been open about his conscious when it comes to playing county football, often referring to the guilt he feels for being away from his family, friends, and club.
To make matters worse, it appears that another piece of the Mayo defence will be absent next summer as Oisin Mullin looks to make the move to Australia.
In 2021, shortly after picking up the Young Player of the Year award, the bombing corner back was heavily linked with a move to Geelong Cats.
However, he resisted temptation and gave another year to the cause for his county, but the green and red jersey may not be enough this time around, as it appears the move down under is imminent.
The 22-year-old is reportedly set on making the jump to the professional game in 2023 and McStay may be in for a rough start as Mayo manager.
Related links:
- The ultimate Michael Murphy quiz
- Lee Keegan gives emotional interview after Westport win first ever Mayo senior title
- Padraig O’Hora gets his hair pulled as fly-goalie gets punished in Mayo championship
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