Andy Moran Has Reportedly Convinced Three Big Guns To Return To Mayo Panel For 2026

With Andy Moran having such a big reputation in the county, it was always going to be interesting to see what his appointment as Mayo manager could have on the team in 2026.

The Ballaghaderreen man has forged a strong reputation in coaching circles in recent years. Not only did he an impressive stint in charge of Leitrim, but he was also largely credited with transforming Monaghan into an attacking juggernaut during his time with the county in 2025.

While a ball has yet to be kicked in the 2026 inter-county season, it seems Mayo have already received a sizeable boost ahead of the campaign.

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John Fogarty of the Irish Examiner is reporting Cillian O'Connor, Rob Hennelly, and James Carr have all returned to the Mayo panel ahead of next season.

All three of those players had opted out of the Mayo panel in 2025, although Andy Moran is said to have convinced them to return.

Rob Hennelly had previously announced his retirement from inter-county football, stepping aside after the 2024 campaign. He did continue to play club football with Dublin side Raheny and will now reportedly return to the panel next season.

Neither Cillian O'Connor or James Carr had retired from Mayo duties, although they opted against linking up with the group this past season. However, they will also come back into the fold to complete what is a trio of formidable additions for Andy Moran.

Should they remain fit, all three players are likely to play a sizeable role for the county in their first campaign under the new manager.

Moran will no doubt be keen for his team to repeat their form in the league last season, with Mayo having reached a league final under Kevin McStay. Their main test will come in the championship, where they will be hoping to stop Galway from winning a record equalling fifth Connacht title on the spin as well as return to contention in the All-Ireland series.