Every year’ – Mac

the week after.

“There’s a lot of discussion goes into that, but I think it would be very short-sighted of us to put out an established team every game, with a view to trying to get out of the division. Let’s give our younger players an opportunity as well.”

Joining McCarthy in the backroom team this year are former Kildare manager Cian O’Neill, who will coach the side, and Kevin Smith, who is in charge of strength and conditioning. Being able to attract two blue-chip operators is a vote of confidence in the Cork set-up, McCarthy feels – but just as important is the fact that the squad are willing to take on board the expertise being offered.

“It’s great,” he says. “They’re both experts in their field. I was coach in year one and we had Eddie [Kirwan] in year two and Adam Doyle and that’s all added

– Ronan McCarthy

to the set-up over the last couple of years. Cian and Kevin bring it up another level again. They have players who are eager to learn and want to be successful, so it’s a great combination.”

Unfortunately, something that doesn’t seem to be a great combination is Cork football and big crowds, even during the high water mark of the Conor Counihan era.

With Páirc Uí Chaoimh – where the footballers have yet to win since redevelopment – back in action, the large stadium might seem cavernous with Division 3 ties unlikely to attract large attendances. However, McCarthy isn’t overly concerned with that and he is keen for the team to get used to playing at the stadium.

“I’ve said previously I don’t get too worried about crowds,” he said.

“The people who are passionate and interested in Cork football will be here, as they always are. It’s a great opportunity for our guys to play four home games on home soil, on a beautiful new pitch in a wide, expansive Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

“What more could they ask for?”