Billy Lee confirms departure of senior player from football ranks

Limerick manager Lee confirmed the news in the wake of their McGrath Cup defeat to Tipperary on Sunday afternoon.

Limerick stalwart Brian Fanning has opted out of the Senior Football team ahead of the 2022 League campaign in a huge blow to Lee’s side.

Citing work commitments, Lee reported the news on Sunday after Limerick were beaten by Tipperary in the second round of the McGrath Cup in Mick Neville Park.

Talking to the press, Lee said of the Pallasgreen man,

“Brian told us after we had the team picked on Thursday night that he couldn’t commit at the moment. He has moved to Dublin and is trying to find his way. The person is more important than the player and I suppose we just have to support Brian and hopefully he can find a way over the next few weeks, months or year whenever it may be to come back to us.

“I’m sure that will happen but Brian’s a great lad, he has given great service to us and we have to recognize that but it’s a huge blow for the squad and the panel. These are the blows you have to try and absorb as you roll on as a county.”

Fanning has been a part of the squad since 2015 and was one of the longest serving players in Lee’s squad prior to his departure, nailing down the full back spot in recent seasons.

With the senior side, he won a McGrath Cup and Division 4 League title, with both coming in 2020.