Mayo captain Paddy Durcan will miss the remainder of the season having injured his ACL in Saturday’s match against Cavan. The news came as an enormous setback for the county, currently in the middle of their All-Ireland group campaign.
The wing back from Castlebar Mitchels is arguably the most influential member of the Mayo team and was an All Star in 2019. He missed the Connacht final against Galway earlier this month because Kevin McStay and his management didn’t want to risk aggravating a previous injury.
In a match lost by an injury-time point, Durcan was a key loss to the team. Back on the field at the weekend as a replacement, he sustained the injury in the last minute of the All-Ireland group match against Cavan, which Mayo won comfortably.
There were immediate concerns and on Monday afternoon, the county board released the following statement.
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“Following further medical assessment today, Mayo GAA can confirm that Paddy Durcan has suffered a cruciate ligament injury.
“Paddy Durcan is an admired figure throughout the county. Mayo GAA would like to wish him all the very best in his recovery, in which he will be supported by our medical team.
Mayo manager, Kevin McStay, said: “This is very disappointing news for Paddy and for everyone involved in Mayo GAA. He is a valued player who also exhibits outstanding leadership capabilities. We will all support and rally around him in his recovery.
“Paddy will remain our captain and a vital member of our squad, where he will continue to lead and inspire us. We look forward to his return to the playing field.”