Donegal Manager Jim McGuinness says he is “delighted” that Michael Murphy has returned from inter-county retirement to be a part of the Donegal squad again.
Jim could hardly hold back his delight after being asked about the talismanic full forward by another legend of County Donegal, Noel Cunningham.
Jim spoke with Noel at the Donegal Association London’s annual soireé last night, where McGuinness was an honoured guest and one of the many famous faces in attendance.
When asked about Michael Murphy, Jim said that he was “delighted” to have the Donegal legend return to the fold.
“Great obviously in terms of what he brings on the pitch, but off the pitch as well (he’s) going to hopefully be a very important part of 2025,” McGuinness said.
“(He’s) a person that I know very well and understand very well, and (with) an incredibly high football IQ. Absolutely delighted that Michael has made that decision and look forward to working with him next year.”
For Jim, while many will have Donegal pegged as one of the favourites after a resurgent 2024, for him it is just one game at a time.
“I think every season will carry its own sort of pressures, but every game really carries a pressure. Things are going well (but) it only takes one defeat for things to unravel. I suppose the secret is to try and prepare as best we can.”
“We just want to try and build now, keep developing, keep growing as a group and see where it takes us.”
