Brian Barry
GAA Editor @BrianGBarry
Peter Keane says Kerry players wanted him to remain as manager but their wishes were not considered
Peter Keane has declared his management team had the support of the Kerry players to remain at the helm: "I know the players very much wanted us to continue with our project. They were the reason I wanted to stay. We were a united Kerry team with a great sense of purpose and ambition."
Last Updated: 02/10/21 7:22am
Former Kerry manager Peter Keane has released a statement after he was refused an extension on his three-year term, saying that the players wanted him to remain at the helm.
Keane's third season in charge ended with an All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Tyrone.
The Kingdom's county board elected to establish a sub-committee to settle on a manager to take the team forward. Keane was considered, but they ultimately opted for three-time All-Ireland winning boss Jack O'Connor.
"It has been a real honour for me to be have been involved with the Kerry county set-up over the last decade - from development squad level, to managing both the minor and senior football teams," Keane said in a statement on Friday afternoon.
"It was great to work with so many of our talented young footballers. To watch their progression - showing potential from young players in development squads was a privilege. To be able to guide them to make the step up to minor level and then onto senior level has been hugely rewarding.
"Unfortunately, losing the semi-final by one point in extra time to the eventual All-Ireland winners, led to a decision to end the work we had started and the momentum we had built.
"I know the players very much wanted us to continue with our project. They were the reason I wanted to stay. We were a united Kerry team with a great sense of purpose and ambition.
"All the players communicated to the county board sub-committee their strong preference for the present management to be retained. It's most disappointing that their wishes do not appear to have been considered in the decision-making process.
"The players are a credit to their families, partners, clubs, and communities. I wish them every success in the future as they start out again.
"It has been a very tough time for everyone over the last while. During my term, we had two very unusual GAA seasons. It was fantastic to start seeing fans back at games again. I will now re-join the Kerry supporters in the stands and the terraces, and I want to thank all the wonderful Kerry supporters who have given us such fantastic backing over the years.
"I would also like to pay tribute to all those who have been involved in the backroom teams at minor and senior level over the past six years - especially James Foley, Maurice Fitzgerald, and Tommy Griffin. There are too many others to mention but they all know how much I appreciated their input and friendship.
"I'd especially like to thank my wife Siobhán and my three boys for giving me their unwavering and unbelievable support over the years.
"Ciarraí Abú, Peter Keane."
