Dooher to Retain Captaincy
blog No Comments »Mickey Harte has confirmed that Brian Dooher will retain the Tyrone captaincy in the event of him returning to the county fold this year.
Dooher, who skippered the Red Hands to All-Ireland glory in 2005 and ‘08, is currently engaged in a rehabilitation programme which will determine whether he can line out in 2010.
But even though there is a chance that the 34-year-old might not make it back, Harte isn’t considering anyone else for the captaincy at this moment in time.
“We’ll be keeping every avenue open for Brian Dooher,” he said in the Irish Daily Mirror.
“He is one of those men you would do that for. If he is injury-free, then I see no reason why (a change is needed).
“He is a long way from doing flat-out work, but we’re happy with the progress he’s making. He is happy enough himself and I am optimistic that if things continue that way and he has as little pain as he has right now, then he will be with us.
“On the days when he is not able to play for the full game, then I’m sure Stevie (O’Neill) will fill in for him.”
Ryan McMenamin deputised as captain for Dooher for much of last season, but as the Dromore defender is not involved in the Dr McKenna Cup, O’Neill will be standing in for the remainder of the competition.
Facile winners over St. Mary’s College last Sunday, the Ulster champions can expect a much sterner test from holders Donegal when they meet in the second round of the McKenna Cup tonight at Ballybofey.
“Donegal will definitely provide a more physical presence than St. Mary’s, who are not at county standard and not as strong as they were last year.
“Donegal are defending champions, they are at home, and there is a bit of talk about us after having a big win at the weekend which sets things up nicely for them,” the Tyrone manager added.
