Kerry selector Mikey Sheehy admits that he was surprised to learn of Brendan Kealy's decision to withdraw from the squad.

The former All-Star announced last week that he was quitting the panel having battled for the number one position with Brian Kelly for the last few years.

This year, Kerry manager Eamonn Fitzmaurice has called up two more goalkeepers to the squad, Shane Murphy and Shane Ryan and it is believe that Kealy was pushed further down the pecking order.

However, Sheehy admitted to the Kerryman that the timing of Kealy's announcement came as a shock as they continue their preparations for the All-Ireland SFC quarterfinal.

"It was a decision Brendan made himself, and while we respect it fully I was a bit surprised at the timing. He's a good lad and a very good goalkeeper and himself and Brian (Kelly) had shared the goalkeeping spot through the league," said Sheehy.

"Brian got the jersey in the Munster championship, and that's the way it goes, but Brendan didn't rule out a return in the future and we certainly wouldn't have the door closed behind him.

"Shane Ryan and Shane Murphy have come in to freshen things up. They're two top class boys and we'll just take it from there now. Brian has the No. 1 jersey and he has performed well, but like every player and position, there is fierce competition for every jersey. It's up to Brian to hold on to it and that will be determined by their form in training."

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