GAA:The Cork county board's appointment committee has recommended Jimmy Barry-Murphy as successor to the outgoing hurling manager Denis Walsh, who was deemed surplus to requirements after three years at the helm earlier this week.
The former Rebels dual star managed the hurlers to an All-Ireland title in 1999 and two Munster titles during a four stint from 1996. He also helped the Cork minors to an All-Ireland in 1995 and two Munster titles.
“The appointment is subject to ratification by thecCounty committee at its next meeting on September 6th,” read a statement on Cork’s website this afternoon.
It also stated the new manager “will have a three-year term” as well as “the right, subject to ratification, to appoint his own selectors and backroom team.”
Walsh last night apologised for the nature of the results during his three years in charge, admitting the manner of Cork’s exit from the last two championships was “unacceptable”.
However, he maintained his belief that Cork had the ability to turn the corner within the next two to three years.
“To the players who have displayed a great appreciation of exactly what is required to compete and win at the highest level,” he said, “my belief in their ability to turn the corner over the next two to three years is unwavering.”
It now looks like St. Finbarr's man, Barry-Murphy, will be with them on that journey. As a player he certainly knew how to win and picked up the three-in-a-row All-Ireland hurling titles from 1976-1978. He added another two in 1984 and 1986 and won senior football championship in 1973.