Fitzmaurice excited by potential of Galway squad

New Galway senior football manager Eamonn Fitzmaurice ©INPHO/James Crombie

Eamonn Fitzmaurice says the strength of Galway's playing group was a major factor in his decision to return to inter-county management.

The former Kerry manager was confirmed as Padraic Joyce's successor on a three-year term on Wednesday night, and he admitted the opportunity to work with the Tribesmen's squad was a major attraction.

"The quality of players was the thing that drew me to the job," Fitzmaurice said.

"I've admired a lot of these players over the years, and I've watched them closely."

Fitzmaurice believes Galway have the personnel to compete at the highest level and sees plenty of scope to build on the work done under Joyce.

"There's a really good group of players there," said the 2014 All-Ireland winning boss. "There's a lot of experience, but there's also younger players coming through."

He added: "They've been knocking on the door for a number of years. Hopefully we can put the pieces together and get the best out of the players."