Barry Owens says the bitter dispute that brought Fermanagh football to its knees last year will have to be faced up to by new manager Peter Canavan.

The former All Star full back was one of those who remained loyal to former boss John O'Neill, but 11 decided to walk away, resulting in a turbulent and disastrous year for the Erne County. Since the appointment of Tyrone legend Canavan, the disgruntled players have returned but Owens insists the matter hasn't "gone away".

"Something has to be said. There is no point brushing it under the carpet," last year's captain told the Irish News.

"It's not going to go away. It's always going to be in the back of people's minds. It has to be addressed."

He continued: "There hasn't been an atmosphere yet. It will be a matter of dealing with it whenever that does arise. Peter will take a look at it in the next month or so. He will probably bring us all together and we'll have a chat about it. He hasn't really had time because we've only been out about a week-and-a-half, if even that." Tweet

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