Magee blames Dublin board

GAELIC GAMES/News: Darren Magee has said the absence of a new Dublin football manager was a factor in his decision to go to Australia for a year. Magee will not be available for Dublin next season. Gavin Cummiskey reports.

Confirming his decision to depart for Australia tomorrow, Magee said: "There is no Dublin manager there to ask me to stay or try and convince me. For such a high-profile position, someone should have been appointed by now. That is the Dublin County Board's fault."

His departure also means he will miss his club's, Kilmacud Crokes, Leinster club championship semi-final against Portlaoise on Sunday in Dr Cullen Park, Carlow.

Several senior Crokes players attempted to convince the midfielder to remain on for the remainder of the Leinster campaign, a maximum of two weeks, after Saturday's victory over Westmeath champions Garrycastle kept them on course for a first provincial title since 1994.

"It was a very difficult decision. The hardest I have had to make in my life so far," said Magee. "But it's something I had set my heart on for a long time now and it would be a let-down for myself if I did not go. I had it booked for months and it is unfortunate for the club now they are progressing in the Leinster championship. Also, it's a chance for me to recharge my batteries.

"I have had four years without a break and the hunger is just not the same. When I went away for a summer before I came back and had my best year for Dublin and my club," he added.

Magee has not set any specific date to return but has ruled out any involvement in the 2005 championship. However, he hopes to continue his intercounty career in the future.

There could be more bad news for Crokes manager Mick Dillon as Magee's club and county team-mate Ray Cosgrove is considered doubtful because of the hamstring strain which kept him out of last weekend's action.

"Not having a player of Darren's calibre is a huge loss and it certainly turns the tide in Portlaoise's favour," said Dillon. "We will give Ray every opportunity to prove his fitness; his presence would certainly be a boost for morale if he can come in, especially considering Darren's departure."

Highlights of this encounter can be seen on Monday on TG4's Ard san Aer programme. TG4's live game on Sunday is the Munster club hurling championship final at Semple Stadium between Tipperary's Toomevara and Mount Sion of Waterford.