By Michael McMullan

DERRY will have to plan without Paudi McGrogan for the rest of the season after news of a torn cruciate ligament.

The Newbridge man, a former Derry minor captain, picked up a knee injury at training on Thursday after the Ulster defeat to Donegal.

McGrogan, who has only missed one game since the start of Rory Gallagher’s tenure, has been a central cog in Derry’s plans and now faces into an operation ahead of a rehab programme.

Derry will begin their All-Ireland campaign with an away trip to Salthill to take on Connacht champions Galway on Saturday week.

Their group also pairs them up with a home tie against the losers of Sunday’s Ulster final before a neutral game against Division Three champions Westmeath.

The Oakleafers came up short against Kerry in last year’s All-Ireland semi-final.