CAVAN have received a massive boost ahead of the 2025 season as Gearóid McKiernan has returned to Raymond Galligan’s panel. McKiernan stepped away at the start of last season but will be back in blue in the New Year.
As reported by Gaelic Life, the former county captain is one of 14 additions to Galligan’s panel and is certainly the most eye-catching. McKiernan had a terrific club campaign for Cavan Gaels and has a wealth of experience.
The 34-year-old was an underage sensation, coming through the ranks during a golden age of football for the Breffni minors. McKiernan went on to win an Ulster crown at senior level too of course in that famed 2020 season.
With the new playing rules in place for next season, the positioning of McKiernan will be interesting. He has played everywhere from midfield up during his career and has been extremely versatile.
Cavan begin their Division Two campaign with a home tie against old rivals Monaghan at the end of January. Galligan’s men will enjoy four home league encounters, with Louth, Down and Cork also coming to Kingspan, Breffni Park.
Cavan will also enjoy the comforts of home advantage in the opening round of the Ulster Championship when they take on Tyrone, with the winners meeting either All-Ireland champions Armagh or Antrim in the semi-finals.
The Breffni men finished in third position in Division Two last season and promotion to the topflight is a realistic ambition. They crashed out of the All-Ireland series at the first hurdle however, finishing bottom of their group off the back of three defeats to Dublin, Mayo and Roscommon.
They did have to field without Paddy Lynch, who suffered an ACL injury after their Ulster Championship defeat to Tyrone. Lynch should be back in blue this season and along with McKiernan, will surely strengthen Cavan’s hand going forward.