OFFALY have put their faith in Mickey Harte as their new joint-manager.
The three-time All-Ireland winning Tyrone boss will join forces with current gaffer Declan Kelly for a three-year term.
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Kelly guided the Faithful to All-Ireland Under-20 glory in 2021 and took the senior reins ahead of the 2024 season.
They endured a mixed campaign which saw them finish sixth in Division 3 of the NFL before failing to qualify from the Tailteann Cup group stage.
But Harte’s shock appointment will be seen as a major coup by county board chairman Michael Duignan as they look to lift their fortunes in 2025.
Harte said: “I am really looking forward to working with Declan and the players over the next three years.
“I am very aware of the history and tradition of Offaly football and believe that there is huge potential within the county.
“I am very excited to work with Declan and the players to get the best out of the footballers in 2025.
“I would like to thank Michael Duignan for his professionalism and honesty in our meetings.”
Hurling legend Duignan added: “I am delighted that Mickey Harte has come on board with Declan as joint-manager.
“His genuine interest in Offaly GAA and his wealth of experience is what I feel Offaly football needs.
“On behalf of the Offaly county board, I want to welcome Mickey to the county.
“And I hope Offaly GAA gaels will come out and show their support.”
Harte departed his native Tyrone in 2020 after 18 seasons at the helm, before a two-year stint in Louth.
He was controversially appointed Derry boss last year but departed the Oak Leaf job last month after one season following their limp All-Ireland quarter- final defeat to Kerry.
Harte’s Offaly appointment means 2025 will be his 23rd consecutive season in senior inter-county management
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