McKiernan poised for switch to Cavan Gaels

Paul Fitzpatrick

Cavan senior star Gearoid McKiernan is poised for a sensational move from his native Swanlinbar to Cavan Gaels.

While no paperwork has been lodged as of yet, sources have confirmed that the 29-year-old midfielder has informed the Swanlinbar club that he is to request a transfer away from the St Mary's and will be joining Cavan Gaels.

In what will be the most high-profile transfer between two Cavan club in over 15 years, former Cavan senior team captain McKiernan would have the opportunity to play senior club football for the first time with the Terry Coyle Park side.

McKiernan played his last match for Swanlinbar in a recent Intermediate Football Championship relegation play-off against Ramor, during which he was unusually substituted as 'Swad' were beaten and, in the process, slipped down to junior ranks.

The club have received no official request as of yet but they are expecting to receive it in the near future.

Under rule, McKiernan, who resides in Butlersbridge, could move to any club in Cavan parish (Butlersbridge, Cavan Gaels, Drumalee or Killygarry) or an adjoining parish.

However, he has had contact with Cavan Gaels in recent days and is expected to throw his lot in with the town club for next season.

McKiernan's switch would mark the first time an established Cavan senior footballer has moved clubs within the county since Anthony Forde transferred from Shannon Gaels to Cavan Gaels in the early 2000s. The 6ft 4in midfielder, who captained Cavan to the Ulster U21 title in 2011, is one of the most outstanding footballers of his generation and well regarded nationally and would prove a decided asset to the Cavan Town club, who were recently beaten in the SFC semi-final by Castlerahan.

"All I can say is I have no comment, it's all rumour and speculation," stated Cavan Gaels club secretary Louis Blessing.

Cavan county board confirmed they have received no notification of any transfer. At the time of going to print, Gearoid McKiernan had not responded to a request for comment.