Richard Thornton says he's relishing his new role as coach with Donegal's senior footballers.

The Tyrone man was ratified to Rory Gallagher's backroom team on Monday night, succeeding Westmeath's Jack Cooney, after having worked alongside Johnny McBride to help Loup to reach last month's Derry SFC final.

A former All-Ireland U21 and Ulster SFC winner with the Red Hands, the Coalisland native explained that the opportunity to work at the highest level was simply too good for him to turn down.

"Rory had mentioned it to me a while back but I said that I wouldn't make a decision until Loup's involvement in the championship was over," Thornton told The Irish News.

"We then talked again and I decided that it was the right move for me at this moment in time. After I quit playing football I got involved in the coaching side of things and I really enjoy it.

"It was a natural progression to try and prove myself at the highest level and I will get that chance with Donegal playing in Division One of the National League. "It's where the cream play their football and I have to say that I'm excited by the challenge.

"You always want to push yourself to the limit and learn new things and I'm looking forward to it and aim to give it my best." 

Tweet

Most Read Stories