James Horan returns to Mayo for four-year term

James Horan is back in charge of the Mayo senior football team for the second time, the county board ratifying a new four-year term which will see him through until the end of 2022.

Horan previously held the role from 2011-14, guiding Mayo to back-to-back All-Ireland defeats and also four successive Connacht titles, and takes over from Stephen Rochford, who stepped down earlier in September after failing to agree terms of his reappointment with the county board.

Also ratified were Horan’s new backroom team of Daniel Forde, Martin Barrett and James Burke. There was speculation that the only other candidate, Mike Solan, might play some role but he will remain in charge of the under-20 team. Solan, their 2016 All-Ireland under-21 winning manager, had originally gone forward for the senior role, but withdrew last Friday, clearing the way for Horan’s return.

“I am delighted to be involved with Mayo and am really looking forward to getting on the field with the players,” said Horan, who outlined plans to contact clubs at all levels in the county in a search for intercounty players.

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“There has been a coaching movement in Mayo over last number of years that has been staggering in its progression,” added Horan in a statement.

“In conjunction with clubs and divisional boards we have seen huge advances with clubs across the county driving very high standards. That is something I want to be involved with, and help ensure that progress continues. It is busy but very exciting times in Mayo GAA and I cannot wait to get started.”