Tyrone’s Ronan McNamee pictured at the launch of the Ulster Championship at O’Neill’s Sportswear in Strabane

RONAN McNamee will hope to avoid injury as the clock ticks down to Tyrone’s home date with Monaghan on May 20, but there’s no guarantee of selection with the competition for places hotting up in the full-back line.

Former Tyrone U21 captain Michael McKernan has slotted in seamlessly in debut season at senior level, while there are a few other unfamiliars who are pushing for a first-team spot.

McNamee, who made three league starts out of a possible seven, says he is determined to hold onto the number three jersey.

“That’s the way you want it, if you get too comfortable, you’re not going to be pushing yourself to the same degreee.

“Hugh Pat’s been very very good, he’s been knocking on the door for a couple of years and his attitude’s always been top notch.

“Michael McKernan and Brendan Burns have come in and everybody knows they’re fighting for positions. That’s the way you want it, nothings guaranteed in life.”

The full interview with Ronan McNamee  is in this week’s Gaelic Life, in shops now or available here.