Winning Sam Maguire has lifted the 'burden' off Donegal's players' shoulders according to midfielder Rory Kavanagh.

The experienced St Eunan's clubman sees the defence of their titles as just 'another opportunity'.

"D'ya know what, I don't think there is any burden on us after winning Sam to be honest," Kavanagh said to Gaelic Life.

"The way I'd look at it is that it is another opportunity. Everyone involved in this panel just loves playing football. You need to like it and you need to love the game. The day you get to the stage of not enjoying it is the day to pack it in.

"We were managed very well after winning the All-Ireland. Once we came back from the holiday, Jim was keen to put the clamps on the excursions and the appearances. You'd still have friends and family wanting you, but no mental panic.

"The focus is on now again - it has to be."

All of Donegal's focus is on Sunday week's eagerly-awaited clash with Tyrone in Ballybofey.

"It's a huge game," added the 30 year old. "It should be a magnificent occasion. Everyone in our camp is really looking forward to it. We'll be back in front of our home crowd again.

"We have come up against Tyrone in the last couple of Championships. They have been tactical games, close and edgy. That adds to the spice of it all.

"It all means that you cannot look past May 26th - and I don't think anyone in either Donegal or Tyrone is even sneaking a look past it to be honest." Tweet

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