JAMES HORAN WILL remain on as Mayo football manager next season, dismissing recent speculation about his future as “pure nonsense.”
Horan had a “very productive meeting” with the Mayo County Board this evening and confirmed that he will return to lead the county’s challenge for a first All-Ireland title in 63 years.
“Nothing has changed, the ambition of this squad is to win an All-Ireland and that is an ambition that drives us all,” he said.
Horan, who has won three Connacht titles in three seasons, managed Mayo to the All-Ireland final for the second year in a row.
But their one-point defeat against Dublin last month led to a wave of speculation that the Ballintubber native was prepared to walk away.
Horan will be faced with backroom changes next season following selector James Nallen’s decision to leave due to family and work commitments.
“It’ll be a real shame not to have James with us next year,” he said.
“He’s been an inspirational figure to the players and, having played 132 competitive games for Mayo, his experience was something we could always turn to. Replacing a real legend in Mayo football won’t be easy.”
Horan confirmed that he has already approached potential candidates to replace Nallen but said it is still too early to make any announcements.
