Football

Mayo’s Paddy Durcan suffers cruciate ligament injury in win over Cavan

Westerners’ captain ruled out for the rest of the season

Mayo's Paddy Durcan will be familiar with some of the Tyrone players from his time at Ulster University
Paddy Durcan suffered a cruciate ligament injury in Mayo's win over Cavan in Castlebar on Saturday

Mayo GAA have confirmed that captain Paddy Durcan suffered a cruciate ligament injury in their win over Cavan on Saturday.

The Castlebar man was introduced as a 56th minute substitute in their opening All-Ireland SFC Group Two game at MacHale Park but suffered a knee injury in added time at the end of the match.

A scan on Monday confirmed the extent of the injury, ending Durcan’s season on the field, but manager Kevin McStay insists he still has a vital part to play in their All-Ireland campaigh

“This is very disappointing news for Paddy and for everyone involved in Mayo GAA. He is a valued player who also exhibits outstanding leadership capabilities. We will all support and rally around him in his recovery,” McStay said

“Paddy will remain our Captain and a vital member of our squad, where he will continue to lead and inspire us. We look forward to his return to the playing field.”

Mayo were 0-20 to 1-8 winners over Cavan on Saturday. Their next match will be against Roscommon on June 2.