All eyes on 'Sparrow's' backroom team

Clare's Ger O'Loughlin

Ger 'Sparrow' O'Loughlin will be ratified as Clare's new hurling manager tonight, but there is likely to be even more interest in what the make-up of his backroom team will be.

While it is not yet clear if O'Loughlin has finalised his selectors, several names have already been linked with the roles. Cyril Lyons, who managed the Banner to an All-Ireland final appearance in 2002, has been strongly linked, although the fact that he was recently ratified to continue with the under 21s could rule him out of the equation.

Other highly respected figures in the county such as Brian Lohan, who recently stepped down as minor manager, Seanie McMahon, Jamesie O'Connor and Liam Doyle have also been touted as possible selectors.

One of the new management's first tasks will be to assess the availablity of Tony Griffin. The former All-Star announced his inter-county retirement during the height of the dispute with former manager Mike McNamara. O'Loughlin will also be expected to draft Gerry Quinn back into the squad after he was axed by McNamara last spring.

Meanwhile, Ger Loughnane has backed his former player O'Loughlin to be a success in the manager's job.

"The only good thing to come out of this sorry mess is the appointment of the 'Sparrow'," the 1995 and '97 All-Ireland winning manager said.

"His appointment will revitalise the more experienced fellas, re-energise the younger lads and get that enthusiasm back again. I think Ger will be a success provided three things fall into place.

"Every hurler in the county with something to offer has to start with a clean slate. Then Ger has to get the cooperation of the board. And finally, he has to get a three-year term.

"I played with and managed the 'Sparrow' and he is an intelligent lad with great drive. Crucially, he gets on well with every personality of player and he fulfils all the criteria to be a good manager."