McCarthy to continue as boss?

JUSTIN McCARTHY’S controversial spell in charge of the Limerick hurlers could continue after the former Waterford boss was nominated for the post again.

McCarthy’s two-year term concluded after Limerick were knocked out of the All-Ireland Championship by Offaly in early July, but he is one of nine men nominated to lead the Treaty men into 2011.

Former Cork All-Ireland winning manager John Allen, outgoing selector John Tuohy and former star players Gary Kirby, Ciaran Carey and TJ Ryan have also been nominated for the position.

The list of nominations will now be handed to the three man sub-committee appointed by the Limerick County Board to select the next manager.

The other remaining names in the hat are those of Dave Keane, Leo O’Connor and Val Murnane.

The committee, made up of former players Paudie Fitzmaurice, Damien Quigley and Dairygold CEO Jim Woulfe, also have the power to interview anyone who they believe would be capable of doing the job but who was not nominated. And if they choose, they can deny any of the nominees an interview.

McCarthy’s reign has been hugely divisive for Limerick hurling though some in the county believe he was correct to assert his authority over the players.

Many believe a new manager will be in place by the end of the summer and, though being nominated, there are long odds on McCarthy being re-appointed as boss.