Dublin have appointed Dessie Farrell as manager of the county's senior footballers. He succeeds Jim Gavin, who stepped down after leading the county to an historic five All-Irelands in succession. The 48-year old from the Na Fianna club will announce his backroom team "in due course". Sean Moran writes in this morning's pages that Farrell brings something different to the Dublin hotseat: "He brings something different to the role when compared to his predecessors and that is a track record of having to handle adversity. . . ."
Manchester United made it three wins in a row after their youngsters put four goals past AZ Alkmaar at Old Trafford last night. It was a night to remember for Mason Greenwood as the 18 year-old scored twice to help United wrap up top spot in their Europa League group. Celtic, already guaranteed top spot in Group E, were beaten 2-0 by Cluj after resting a number of their key players. Earlier, Arsenal were lucky to escape with a draw against Standard Liège. Their 18 year-old Bukayo Saka crossed for Alexandre Lacazette to head the visitors level 12 minutes from time before making it 2-2 himself three minutes later. Also last night, John Earley (chairman of the Schoolboys Football Association of Ireland) resigned from the board of the Football Association of Ireland.
In his column this morning, Matt Williams writes an open letter to Conor Murray and Ross Byrne telling them they could find themselves as the halves pairing for Ireland in the 2020 Six Nations: "it's important to also remember why you love to play rugby. Because it's fun. I would like to see you both playing with the occasional smile on your faces . . ." Gerry Thornley believes a more settled Ulster have what it takes to pass stern their Stoop test as they take on Harlequins in the Champions Cup tonight.
Meanwhile Shane Lowry's historic win in the 148th British Open at Portrush, his first career Major championship, has earned the popular Offaly man recognition as recipient of the Irish Golf Writers' Association Professional Player of the Year for 2019.
