Newslines

In keeping with their previous practice in this respect, Offaly have named a new senior football manager completely lacking in inter-county experience. Last night's county board meeting in Tullamore unanimously ratified the recommendation of a special committee by naming Kildare's Padraig Nolan as successor to Tommy Lyons. Although this will be his first taste of inter-county management, he has experience and success to his credit at both colleges and club level.

Paidi O Se has been reappointed as manager of the Kerry footballers. He has already served four years and this two-year renewal will give him a six-year term. John O'Keeffe, currently busy as one of the Ireland management team for next month's International Rules series in Australia, will be one of O Se's selectors as well as the team's technical adviser. O'Keeffe was in charge of the team's fitness last year but did not serve as a selector. Three more selectors will be elected by the clubs in the county. Monday night's vote unanimously extended O Se's tenure whereas O'Keeffe's appointment was carried by a large majority.