One of Brendan Hackett's first tasks as Westmeath football manager will be to talk double All-Star defender John Keane out of retirement. The 29-year-old Rosemount clubman, who is getting married next month, has reportedly informed Westmeath officials of his intention to retire from inter-county football because of persistent injury problems. Keane, who was recently named on the best Leinster team of the past 25 years, won All-Stars in 2004 and last year and is generally regarded as one of the best man-markers in the game. He was one of the stars of the Lake County's historic Leinster championship success in 2004 and was also a key performer for Ireland in last year's International Rules series victory over Australia. While aware of Keane's intentions, Hackett remains hopeful of persuading the outgoing captain to commit himself to the cause for another year. "John mentioned earlier in the year that it might be his last. But nothing is concrete. No panel will be picked until after the championship in Westmeath is complete and we'll see who is available then," he said. "It's too early for speculation." Tweet

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