By Niall Gartland

SEANIE Johnston has been enlisted to join the Cavan Senior Intercounty set-up as a forward’s coach.

Johnston, who earned a reputation as a tricky and talented corrner-forward during his playing days, has been brought on board by his Cavan Gaels clubmate, Mickey Graham, who is entering his fourth year in charge of the Breffni County.

Graham will be hoping that Johnston, who made his last playing appearance for Cavan in 2018, will be able to make a positive impact as they look ahead to their Division Four campaign next season.

Johnston has already dipped his toes into coaching and management, having led Cuchulainn’s this season alongside Michael Lyng. He isn’t the only new face in the Cavan backroom as Tyrone legend Ryan McMenamin has been brought into replace Dermot McCabe.

McMenamin stepped down as Fermanagh manager after their Ulster Championship exit to Monaghan earlier in the year, but has decided against taking a break in a new coaching role with the Breffni County, who had a very disappointing 2020 after the highs of winning their first Ulster title in 23-years in 2020.

Meanwhile, Cavan have also appointed a new minor management team of Seanie Smyth and Barry McGahan. In other management news, Fermanagh also have a new minor management team of Tony Collins and Raymie Johnston. Maxi Curran will also stay in charge of the Donegal ladies for another season.

County training sessions allowed to recommence from December 8 and challenge matches permitted from January 1.

The green light has also been given for the return of the McKenna Cup and all the other pre-season competitions across Ireland after a one-year hiatus.

Next year’s All-Ireland football final, meanwhile, will be played on July 24. In the event of a draw, extra-time will be played with a space for a replay on Sunday, August 6.