Mattie Kenny has stepped down as coach to the Galway hurlers.

The news comes as speculation continues to grow over Anthony Cunningham's future as manager. Cunningham's position is up for review after a disappointing second season at the helm. Earlier this week, Galway hurling committee chairman Joe Byrne was forced to deny reports that the St. Thomas' man had offered his resignation in the wake of last month's crushing Leinster final loss to Dublin.

Kenny had served alongside Cunningham and Gort clubman Tom Helebert on the Galway management team for the past two years, with the trio having been handed the reins after guiding the county's U21s to All-Ireland glory in 2011. They led the Tribesmen to the brink of a first Liam MacCarthy Cup success in 24 years last September, but failed to build on that progress this year.

Tynagh-Abbey-Duniry clubman Kenny had also been involved with Galway's 2005 All-Ireland U21 winning team. A highly-regarded coach, it wouldn't come as any surprise if he returns as manager at some time in the future.

If Cunningham isn't reappointed, Micheal Donoghue - who managed Clarinbridge to an All-Ireland club title in 2011 - could be the man to take over.

Westmeath county board officials are believed to be monitoring the situation closely amid reports that they will approach Cunningham to manage the Lake County's footballers in 2014 if he becomes available. Cunningham lives in Athlone and is highly thought of in Westmeath after he won three county SFC titles with Garrycastle and guided them to an All-Ireland club final appearance last year. Tweet

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