Wexford boss Ryan in line to take over Déise hurlers

Wexford football manager Jason Ryan has emerged as the surprise candidate to succeed Davy Fitzgerald as manager of the Waterford hurlers, according to the Sunday Independent.

Fitzgerald stepped down in the wake of the Déise’s All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Kilkenny in August after four seasons at the helm, having guided Waterford to their first All-Ireland final in 45 years in 2008.

His controversial relationship with a number of key players in the county and the lure of the now vacant Clare hurling job led to speculation that he would call it a day this season, and Ryan has emerged as the surprise favourite to fill his admittedly small shoes (in a literal sense of course).

Ryan, a Waterford native, has been in charge of the Wexford football team since 2007, having enjoyed a considerable amount of success with the Model County after taking on the post when only 32 years of age.

Although Ryan does not have much of a hurling background, he is renowned as an innovative coach and a selection committee are thought to be considering a management team of Ryan and former Kilkenny hurler James McGarry.

According to the Sunday Independent, “When contacted yesterday, Ryan said he had not applied for the job and that he wasn't nominated by the clubs, while also stating that there were other candidates in contention who deserved respect and due recognition.

“However, as with any management appointment process, informal discussions can take place and it is believed that a six-man sub-committee has been in contact with Ryan.”

Former Carlow manager Kevin Ryan and former Waterford ladies manager Michael Ryan are also thought to have thrown their hat in the ring, while Déise legend Fergal Hartley has ruled himself out of contention.

No formal interviews have yet been carried out to fill the vacancy.