Fergal Hartley says Waterford hurling supporters will need to show lots of patience over the next few years while Derek McGrath rebuilds the team.

McGrath has carried out a major cull by releasing six players from his squad, including regular full back Liam Lawlor, and replacing them with six of last year's All-Ireland winning minors. The Deise are also planning for the future without stalwarts Seamus Prendergast and Shane Walsh who both announced their inter-county retirements this week.

"There is no doubt about it that Waterford are going through a period of transition," the Ballygunner manager and former Waterford captain is quoted in the Irish Examiner.

"If you go back to the team of 2007, 2008, that team is effectively gone. Most of the personnel who take to the field next year will be doing so for the first time.

"Certainly from the heights of 2002 to 2010 when Waterford were at their peak, things have changed dramatically. The Waterford team is much younger now but it does seem to be a younger man's game. One time the leaning used to be on experience, it is now on youth."

He added: "Patience needs to abound to allow Derek build a team. That is the reality on the ground. I think the right man is in charge. He has a great track record in getting the best out of young players. He needs time.

"I think the expectation amongst the Waterford hurling public is not as high as it would have been in the past. There is an appreciation and understanding that this is a young team, lads need time to come through."

Tweet

Most Read Stories