Former Down captain Paddy O’Rourke has been appointed manager of the Armagh senior footballers. The 1991 All-Ireland winner and former manager of the Mourne County, replaces Peter McDonnell who resigned after two seasons in charge.
Speaking on the official Armagh GAA website, O’Rourke said: “I find Armagh a very attractive county. They’re a very passionate county about their football.
“There’s a great tradition of very good sides in Armagh. There are great clubs in Armagh.
“I’m always attracted to players and teams that are passionate when it comes to football and I think Armagh are top of the ladder when it comes to that.”
The surprise appointment brings to an end a long running saga to replace McDonnell, who took over from Joe Kernan.
Former assistant Kildare boss Joe Grimley was also considered but committed to Monaghan.
Lilywhites manager and former Armagh captain Kieren McGeeney ruled himself out of the running early on, while Kernan himself took up the Galway job soon after declaring he wasn't interested in returning.
O’Rourke’s former All-Ireland winning manager with Down, Pete McGrath, is also believed to have been considered.