Tyrone great Peter Canavan says he’s not convinced yet by Mayo’s All-Ireland credentials despite them defeating holders Kerry last weekend.

Kevin McStay’s men were impressive in their 1-19 to 0-17 win in Killarney last Saturday but, speaking on RTE’s Game On programme, Canavan said the Kingdom would be favourites if the sides were to meet again in the latter stages of the championship.

"I'm not convinced yet. If Mayo were to play Galway in an All-Ireland final, I think Galway would win it," he said.

"Now, Mayo were very impressive absolutely and a lot of people questioned them after their defeat in Connacht, and my god they came back with some answer.

"Kerry were very impressive in the Munster final against Clare but Mayo scored 1-19 and they left a bit behind them too.

"So, for a team that hadn't played any competitive football in six weeks, it was a very impressive performance.

Peter Canavan doubts on whether Mayo would prevail against Galway and why Kerry would be fancied if they meet the green and red again #rtegaa @GameOn2FM pic.twitter.com/gxe7GwhWY5

— RTÉ GAA (@RTEgaa) May 23, 2023

"And yes, of course, they've put themselves back in the reckoning. But just like maybe a lot of people felt that when Mayo were beaten in Connacht, a lot of people were writing them off, a few people are saying a few things now about Kerry that they're gone and whatnot, likewise I just wouldn't be too quick to write them off.

"I think (Kerry) will certainly learn from this defeat. It will motivate them. I have no doubt Jack O'Connor will find it easier speaking to these boys now moving forward.

"And likewise, if Kerry and Mayo were to play in an All-Ireland final semi-final in Croke Park or an All-Ireland final, you'd find that Kerry probably would be going into that game as favourites."

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