James McCartan has stepped down from his post as Down senior football manager after just one season at the helm.

The Down county board confirmed yesterday that McCartan’s second stint as manager was over following “considerable thought during the past few weeks”.

This past season saw the Mourne men relegated from Division 2 of the Allianz Football League before losing out to Monaghan in the Ulster championship and exiting Round 1 of the inaugural Tailteann Cup at the hands of Cavan.

Kilcoo’s Conor Laverty has emerged as the early favourite to succeed McCartan, with the latter’s resignation being confirmed by the following statement from Down GAA:

“James McCartan has informed Down GAA of his decision to step down as manager of the county senior football team,” it read.

“James was first appointed to the position in September 2009, leading Down to an All-Ireland Football Final appearance in his first season. The county team also secured promotion to Division 1 in 2010 and an Ulster Final appearance in 2012 during his tenure. In November 2021, he was once again appointed to the position, but after considerable thought during the past few weeks, he has decided to now step aside from the role.

“Down GAA wish to place on record our gratitude to James, Aidan O'Rourke, Ronan McMahon and the entire coaching and backroom team for their work during the 2022 season.

“James McCartan will always be regarded as an iconic figure of Down football. He has given outstanding service to his county as a player and manager, and we wish him well.

“Cumann Lúthchleas Gael an Dúin will now commence the process to appoint a new manager.”

James McCartan has informed Down GAA of his decision to step down as manager of the county senior football team.https://t.co/mA758eZksZ pic.twitter.com/iPnuRyLBWv

— Official Down GAA (@OfficialDownGAA) July 25, 2022

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