DUBLIN ARE EAGER to appoint a manager for a three-year term as uncertainty continues over Anthony Daly’s future.
Clare All-Ireland winning captain Daly has been at the helm for the last six years but it is still unclear as to whether he will stay in the role after a hugely disappointing 2014 campaign.
County chairman Andy Kettle will meet shortly with Daly and has revealed the Dublin want to secure a manager for the next three years.
“Anthony Daly was on holidays in Portugal last week. We do expect to meet with him, by next weekend. I don’t think another year’s extension is what is required for Dublin hurling, going forward. I think it’s a three year project.
“I wouldn’t like to put any perceived pressure on him (Daly). He’s had time to think about, talk to his family, evaluate his own personal life, and whether the road up to Dublin is getting longer or shorter, and thats a big factor in his thinking.
“Anthony Daly owes us nothing. We owe Anthony Daly an awful lot. He took a team that was probably lacking in belief, probably a bit short on intercounty skills, and fashioned them into real contenders. My opinion is any four of last years semi-finalists could have won the All-Ireland. Unfortunately there could only be one.”
Selector Richie Stakelum has revealed he has no idea what way Daly is leaning towards in his decision.
“Anthony is the person making the massive commitment. There is no two ways about that. It is 540 kilometres of a round trip. It’s a huge decision for him to make. It really is about whether he has the heart or the will and whether he feels there is more to give. And I have no idea what decision he’ll make.”
Reflect
Kettle believes it is time for a period of reflection in Dublin hurling.
“We have got to a certain level but we do need to push on again, to get to the top level.
There are a lot of remarks about Dublin hurling doing great work, great promotion, all that.
“Maybe in our psyche were starting to think were slightly better than we are.
So we do have to take an in depth look, right down the line, to development squad level, minor and U21. It’s an opportune time. You never sit on your laurels.”