DONEGAL BOSS RORY Gallagher will be without the services of Stephen McBrearty for the remainder of the inter-county season after the youngster took the decision to travel to America for the summer.
The Donegal Democrat reports that McBrearty informed Gallagher of his decision last weekend and has dropped off the panel ahead of their Ulster championship opener against Antrim at Ballybofey on 21 May.
McBrearty, a minor in 2014, is the younger brother of ace attacker Paddy and a club-mate of county stars Ryan and Eoin McHugh.
He was used sparingly by Gallagher during Donegal’s league campaign – making substitute appearances against Kerry, Dublin and Tyrone. But he was a key figure for Declan Bonner’s U21s who lifted the Ulster title last month.
“Stephen is gone from the squad,” Gallagher confirmed to the Donegal News today. “I think he is hoping to do a bit of travelling, but he hasn’t decided which city he will be going to, or which team he will be joining.
“Everyone has to do what they feel is right for them, and I can understand the temptation for the boys to head away.
“We had a talk with Stephen, and he didn’t really think he was going to play much after not getting a lot of game time in the league. By his own admission, he felt he wasn’t happy with his form during the U21 championship either.
“He has decided to head away and see a bit of the world.”
It is believed McBrearty will return from the US in time for Kilcar’s next championship game. He posted six points from play in their 1-15 to 1-12 championship first round win over Gaoth Dobhair last weekend.
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