New manager needs time if Kingdom are to catch up with the pack

TRADITIONALISTS will not be impressed by the news that Down could be on the verge of appointing their first outside manager.

The thought of an outsider taking over Kerry would horrify people, and we’ll be waiting a long time before that happens. Indeed, it could be a familiar face taking charge of Kerry next season if you believe the latest rumours.

Last week, it was supposed to be minor manager Peter Keane replacing Éamonn Fitzmaurice. Then it was Diarmuid Murphy.

Now Jack O’Connor is the latest name linked with the role.

A four-person committee is charged with finding the replacement, and with due respect to them, it would have been useful if a former player was included in the search.

It appears the new man will be named in early October. I hope so, because at this time of year every week is precious. The level of preparation needed increases every year.

When you see the intensity Dublin play at, you appreciate how far Kerry were off that.

Mayo got close last year and Tyrone will hope they can this year, but meeting that standard is a big job.

The sooner a manager is in place, the quicker they can start trying to turn the tide.