Westmeath GAA hoping for One Direction and Owen Mulligan reluctantly joins the BBC

Westmeath GAA could be turning to One Direction to boost the coffers, no more Mort for Mayo and Mulligan joins the BBC.

By Declan Whooley

Mulligan reluctantly swaps playing for punditry as he joins the BBC team

Owen Mulligan would dearly love to be part of Mickey Harte’s plans for the coming season, but will be part of a different team entirely.

The corner-forward has accepted an offer from the BBC to join their panel for the coming Championship and while the 32 year-old admits he would rather be togging out for the Red Hand, he has said he would jump at the opportunity if Harte were to consider a recall.

Mulligan would welcome a recall

“I don't think I'm in Mickey Harte's plans so I thought I would go for it,” he told the BBC.

“I haven't retired from Tyrone. If Mickey Harte comes looking me, I’ll definitely go back.”

Mulligan pulled no punches on the pitch so we are expecting something similar in his new role and has started in impressive form, saying Tyrone would have definitely won the league final if Stephen O’Neill had been playing.

He could be the new Gary Neville of the BBC Gaelic coverage.

Westmeath County Board going in One Direction

We know that the current economic climate is proving difficult for everyone and County Boards are no exception. Losses have been reported in many counties as the GAA tries to get its respective houses back in order.

Westmeath are using one of their biggest stars to help swell the coffers. Which is good news for Westmeath GAA. And even better news for One Direction fans.

He could be crooning at Cusack Park - try to contain yourself

The Irish Independent report that are hoping to earn €25,000-€30,000 from a two-day music gig at Cusack Park on September 13-14, and the teeny-boppers will be beside themselves that One Direction are being mooted as the headline act thanks to the Niall Horan connection.

The lads are already lined up for gigs at Croke Park so it is a long shot, but everyone here at JOE is overly-excited at the prospect of the money-spinner in September.

No return for the Mort

With Galway taking on rivals Mayo this weekend, one man who will be watching on with interest will be Conor Mortimer. The former Mayo forward is no longer part of the Mayo set-up and has admitted that his inter-county days are over.

The forward who famously wore a t-shirt to commemorate Michael Jackson’s death when the two sides clashed in the 2009 final at Pearse Stadium says his days are numbered in a Mayo jersey but has no regrets over what happened last summer when he left the Championship panel.

A sight we are unlikely to see again

“It was very simple – the manager didn't fancy me, so I wasn't willing to hang around for that. But it is no big thing, it happens in every walk of life and in every sport,” he told the Irish Independent.

“I don't think there is any chance I'll play for Mayo again. I am still playing ball and not playing too badly, but James (Horan) has his 30 or so lads there that he wants to look at.”

Ironically it comes at a time when Mayo’s options in the forward line are depleted and there is a little doubt that a fully fit and focused Mortimer can cause even the best defences trouble. It doesn’t look likely that we will see this again the green and red of Mayo however.