Limerick hurling boss set to exit stage

Despite denials from the Limerick County Board earlier yesterday that hurling manager Pad Joe Whelahan was set to announce his resignation, reports suggest the Offaly man has now confirmed his intention to leave the county.

Rumours also suggested that a new management line-up had already been set in train.

"There is no truth whatsoever in that report," said county board PRO Denis O'Carroll earlier yesterday. "The first I heard of it was when listening to the radio."

The speculation had suggested that one of Whelahan's selectors, Joe McKenna, would take over as manager, with Ger Cunningham, who took Newtownshandrum of Cork to last year's All-Ireland club title, becoming coach.

"Even if - and I say if - Pad Joe Whelahan did resign as manager," said O'Carroll, "the clubs would decide on what happened next".

The speculation followed on the county's very poor start to the National League, which has seen heavy defeats by Cork and Tipperary. There have been rumours of player discontent, with former All Star Mark Foley not lining out in either match despite being selected.

Former captain TJ Ryan was removed from the panel last week on the basis that he needed to a undergo a personal training programme, but amid suggestions that he had rowed with Whelahan at training.

Whelahan, who enjoyed immense success with Birr - winning three All-Ireland club titles, appeared very unhappy after Sunday's defeat by Tipperary and referred to the frustration within the panel and acknowledged the possibility that the county board might be losing patience.

Another name associated with the position should it become vacant is Tony Considine, a selector with Ger Loughnane for Clare's two All-Irelands in 1995 and '97, who took Garryspillane to last season's Limerick final.