Speculation on McHugh for Galway role

Pádraic Joyce's spell as Galway manager has come to an end after seven years in charge. Speculation now turns to the possible replacement for the Galway supremo with online forums suggesting that Mark McHugh is one of the names the occupants of Pearse Stadium could canvas for the spot.

The former Donegal All-Ireland winner, who took over as the senior manager for the Westmeath Footballers at the start of last season, has had a phenomenal impact in his last two roles.

Prior to his inter-county post, McHugh coached Galway club side Maigh Cuilinn. David Wynne, the then Maigh Cuilinn captain, went to college with McHugh. Under the stewardship of manager Cathal Clancy the Galway club made the 2024 County Final.

McHugh then returned to the inter-county arena with Westmeath, who had appointed Dermot McCabe as manager. Since stepping up to the senior role in the county he has had a transformative influence on the fortunes of Westmeath. The season saw them claim their second ever senior provincial title, and a first since 2004.

Back in June McHugh's side faced Galway in Round 2A of the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship at Pearse Stadium, where Westmeath suffered a narrow defeat despite a battling performance.

He is highly regarded within the county and has direct familiarity with several key players on the Galway panel.

Other names touted to replace Joyce include: Kevin Johnston (Current Galway U20 Manager), Cathal Clancy (Current Moycullen Manager), Alan Glynn (Managed the Galway Minor Footballers from 2020 - 2024 with winning the All-Ireland in 2022), Anthony Cunningham (Managed Galway Senior Hurling from 2011 - 2015 winning a Leinster title and reaching 2 All-Ireland Finals, Managed Roscommon Senior Football from 2018 - 2022 and winning a Connacht title and has done excellent so far with St Brigids football club).

Further high profile names in the conversation include Stephen Rochford and Jim Gavin.