A Tyrone Over 40s footballer cannot understand why the GAA refuses to recognise the Masters competition, yet had no problem allowing an Irish Guards regiment of the British Army to enter a team into next year's London JFC.

The All-Ireland Masters competition has been running for many years without Croke Park's blessing, something which irks Gavin McElroy, who is a former Carrickmore and Tyrone senior player.

"Do those who sanctioned this see no irony in allowing the Irish Guards to take part in Gaelic Games whilst at the same time not affording all Irish citizens the same right?" he asked in the Irish News.

"The GAA have for some years now refused to be associated with the Gaelic Masters competition which sees players aged 40 and over represent their county in an All-Ireland competition."

Explaining why the Over 40s isn't recognised, the GAA's Alan Milton said: "The official recognition of the Masters was discontinued for a very valid reason - that was because of the high level of injuries and the robust nature of the games which weren't in the spirit of the Masters competition."

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