O'Neill committed to Tyrone side

Published Wednesday, 24 August 2011
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Former Footballer of the Year Stephen O'Neill has committed himself to another season with Tyrone.

The 31-year-old attacker confirmed that he will be available to manager Mickey Harte again in 2012.

O'Neill's commitment to the cause comes amid speculation that a number of the more experienced members of the Red Hand squad will call it a day in the wake of a comprehensive All-Ireland SFC quarter-final defeat to Dublin.

Asked if he had any hesitation in deciding to extend his inter-county career, he replied: "Definitely not".

Philip Jordan has suggested that 'six of seven' of the current squad could be considering retirement, but O'Neill is hoping that none of this season's players will call it a day.

"Without a doubt, I hope they'll all be staying," he added.

Three-time All-Ireland winner O'Neill had to endure another season dogged by injury in 2011, missing the entire National Football League campaign and much of the championship.

He was only able to make a second half appearance as a substitute against Dublin, making a positive impact when he entered the action.

"It was disappointing, but you have to get on with it," he said.

Having been outplayed by a resurgent Dublin side, Tyrone can only reflect on another championship campaign which came to a premature end, and O'Neill believes the team has something to prove come the new season.

"I think we had to prove this year, but we didn't do it, so we'll have to start again next year.

"Dublin just played better on the night. It was just one of those nights. They were very sharp, and it was unfortunate that we hit them at that time."

O'Neill has returned to full fitness following a prolonged struggle with a hamstring problem, and warmed up for this weekend's championship opener against Augher by scoring 1-4 in a league game against Killyman last Sunday.

"I'm fit and ready to go for the club championship, and looking forward to it."

Club and county colleague Brian Dooher is also expected to be fit for Saturday's game, having received good news over a suspected broken jaw.

© UTV News
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