NUI Galway manager John Maughan has appealed to the GAA to tackle the player-burnout issue.

The former Clare, Mayo and Fermanagh boss believes a more streamlined fixtures structure and better communication between college and county team managers would go a long way towards solving the problem.

"It can't be allowed go on. I would like to see Croke Park and all interested parties sitting down together, agree that what's happening is intolerable and plan a way forward, so that it's not repeated next year," he said in the Irish Independent.

"Playing some National League games pre-Christmas or bringing Sigerson forward to January would ease the pressure. I also believe that with better communication, a lot of the difficulties could be avoided. What I'm certain about is the pressure being put on some players at this type of year is outrageous."

Speaking before yesterday's controversial NUIG versus St.Mary's, Belfast Sigerson Cup tie, Maughan continued: "It has been pretty hectic for a lot of players over the last few weeks and we have lads who are playing today who will be expected to be at county training tomorrow night and play a National League game at the weekend.

"You also have a situation at this time of year where lads are supposed to be match fit for their college teams, while being asked to do endurance work and strength and conditioning as part of a senior county panel.

"On top of all that, the U21 championships are coming down the track. Any wonder so many young players feel they're being burned out? In many cases, they are afraid to say 'no' to anybody, even if they're feeling wrecked. And then they have to find time to study." Tweet

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