Jack O’Connor has quit as Kildare senior football manager, which could pave the way for a third stint in charge of Kerry.
O’Connor had served two years in the job and last month exercised his option of a third season though he has since had a change of heart, citing the lengthy commute from his home in Kerry.
The Dromid Pearse’s man was linked to a return to the Kerry job as speculation surrounded Peter Keane’s position in the wake of last Saturday week’s All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Tyrone.
His comments last week, when he spoke of the “allure” of the Kerry job and likened it to that of Manchester United when speaking on an Irish Examiner podcast, raised eyebrows in both his native county and Kildare and, in that context, his decision to step aside doesn’t come as a complete surprise.
O'Connor managed Kerry to All-Irelands in 2004 and '06 during his first reign and returned to win a third in 2009. He stepped down following the 2012 All-Ireland quarter-final defeat to Donegal and later managed the Kerry minors to a pair of All-Irelands before taking charge of the under-20s, with less success.
“After two challenging but very enjoyable years I have decided to step away from managing the Kildare senior football team,” O’Connor said in a statement issued by Kildare GAA.
“This was a very difficult decision for me and one that I agonised over during the past few weeks. I have been made feel very welcome during my time in Kildare and I have worked with some great people up here.
“However, a round journey of over eight hours from St Finian’s Bay to Newbridge and back takes its toll and I felt this was unsustainable for the coming season.”
A statement from Kildare outlined: “Jack had previously indicated that the personal impact of the commute from South Kerry was taking its toll but that his desire was to continue in the role and to build on the progress achieved over the previous couple of years.
“To this end, he and his management team were at an advanced stage of planning for 2022 but he has now decided not to stay on for a third year.”
O’Connor had enjoyed reasonable success in Kildare, steering them to promotion to Division One this year and a Leinster final appearance.
Kildare chairman Mick Gorman added: “We hold Jack in the highest esteem and the impact of his experience, influence and commitment as a manager will leave a lasting impression.
“We wish Jack the very best of luck in his future endeavours. He will always be welcome here in Kildare.”
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