Former Tyrone star Sean Cavanagh reckons the return of Jack McCaffrey and Paul Mannion to Dublin’s senior football squad is “a dangerous move” by manager Dessie Farrell.

2015 Footballer of the Year McCaffrey stepped away before the Dubs completed the six-in-a-row in 2020, while three-time All-Star forward Mannion also opted out at the end of that season.

However, both will be on board in 2023 and, writing in his column for Buzz.ie, Cavanagh says it shouldn’t be assumed that the returning pair will bring the Dubs back to the summit.  

“I’ve no doubt that McCaffrey and Mannion will have great games again, they’ll probably win another few Leinster titles to add to the zillion they already have," wrote the three-time All-Ireland winner. 

“But we shouldn’t start making assumptions that they will return a transitioning team to the top table. Division Two will be a wake-up call for the team and, believe it or not, it won’t be the cakewalk most will assume.

“Derry and Kildare will feel that they will have every chance of promotion and playing in the driving wind and rain of February will test the true desire of the Dubs.

“McCaffrey, Mannion and every Dublin supporter will be dreaming of the band getting back together and the return of the Gavin years. But there’s a huge danger in looking back — and in going back.”

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