NEWS:JAMES McCARTAN looks set to remain in charge of the Down footballers for a fourth season.

McCartan, who led Down to the 2010 All-Ireland final in his first year as manager, is due to meet county officials in the next week and appears to have the support of the current panel.

“For the greater good of Down football I hope that James will continue as manager,” Benny Coulter was quoted in the Newry Democrat.

“I’ve been involved with Down seniors for 13 years and I think I am in a good position to comment on who I feel can take Down football forward and for me, not only next year but in years to come, James is without doubt the right man. The footballing people in Down know that he is the right man.”

With the positions of Cork football and Tipperary hurling managers not expected to be filled in the short term, the focus remains on how Meath and Dublin will replace Séamus McEnaney and Pat Gilroy respectively.

There has been no discussions between Conor Counihan and the Cork executive while Tipperary are refusing to make any comment about Declan Ryan’s successor.

Kilmacud Crokes All-Ireland winning club manager Paddy Carr remains the favourite in Meath although Graham Geraghty, John Evans, Eamonn Barry, Seán Kelly and Pat Coyle have also been nominated. Colm O’Rourke is no longer a consideration.

The selection committee includes chairman Barney Allen, Conor Tormey, former All-Ireland winning captain Tommy Dowd, Peter Collins and Leo Halpin.

“None of the nominated men have been interviewed,” said Meath County Board secretary Cyril Creavin. “So, you are looking for a very short timescale for one nomination to be ratified in October.”

Dublin Under-21 manager Jim Gavin has been repeatedly mentioned as a possible successor to Gilroy but that decision rests with county secretary John Costello, chairman Andy Kettle and a third Dublin native.

Keeping with tradition, the three-man committee will not be looking for someone from outside the county.

“I wouldn’t see any need not to stay within the county,” said Kettle.

Kettle also stated confirmation that Anthony Daly will continue as hurling manager is imminent and while former Tipperary player Richie Stakelum is due to remain on the management ticket other changes are expected.

“There were indications that this probably will be the case,” Kettle added.