Dowd on team to select Meath manager

Former Meath captain and Allstar winner Tommy Dowd has been included on the committee to select the new Meath football manager from the 10 names that have been nominated. Sean Kelly, Graham Geraghty, Paddy Carr, Andy McEntee, Pat Coyle, Mick O'Dowd, Damien Sheridan, Eamonn O'Brien, Colm O'Rourle and John Evans have all been proposed by the clubs. Kelly has already announced his intention not to allow his name go forward so it appears that the list is reduced to nine. Surprise absentees from the list include Liam Harnan and Gerry McEntee. Dowd, who captained Meath to the 1996 All-Ireland SFC victory over Mayo, also had a spell as a selector when Colm Coyle held the managerial reins. Dowd, who played for Dunderry and Wolfe Tones, has been included on the seletion committee along with Co Board chairman Barney Allen, Conor Tormey (Donaghmore/Ashbourne), Peter Collins (Moynalvey) and Leo Halpin (Oldcastle). It is understood that there have been up to 10 nominees put forward for the post of manager with interviews likely to get underway early next week. Paddy Carr - former minor manager Pat Coyle - also nominated for u-21 position John Evans - involved last term Graham Geraghty - selector last term Sean Kelly - not going forward Andy McEntee - current minor manager and u-21 nominee Eamon O'Brien - former manager Mick O'Dowd - no previous involvement Colm O'Rourke - former u-21 manager Damien Sheridan - no previous involvement The Co Board can search for an individual outside those nominated by clubs. The matter will be discussed at Monday night's Co Board meeting when the list of nominees will also be confirmed officially.