Cathal Cregg backs Daire to lead Roscommon for the next decade

Former Roscommon footballer Cathal Cregg has backed forward Daire Cregg to lead the Rossies for the next decade.

Following another impressive season in 2024, Daire Cregg rejected the chance to move to the AFL with Carlton.

Currently preparing for the Sigerson Cup final with UCD, Daire has once again been a standout player in the competition.

Looking ahead to the final, Cathal backs him to be the man to watch after falling just short in the 2024 decider.

"I have been keeping a very close eye on Daire Cregg. I have known him since he was young, and I think he has been an exceptional player.

"I saw him playing last year in the Sigerson Cup final, and I thought he was the best player on the pitch by a mile, considering they were well beaten in the final. I think he got 10 or 11 points.

"I think he is a very special talent. If he stays injury-free, he is going to be a crucial player for Roscommon for the next 10 years."

Cathal Cregg has enjoyed success in third-level football, winning the Sigerson Cup twice with UCD during his time at the college.

The former Roscommon man says that winning silverware early in the season can give a player confidence heading into the inter-county campaign.

"In 2010, when we won it, we went on to win Connacht. Probably in the two years we won it, I had my best seasons with Roscommon.

"You end up playing at a very high level early in the year. I didn’t get injured or anything, so you should be able to carry your form into the season.

"From a confidence point of view, it reassures you that you can compete at that level. You are playing with and against the best players in the country."

2024 was a mixed year for Roscommon, as they were relegated to Division Two and lost in the Connacht