Crossmaglen's Caolan Finnegan dies aged 20 after cancer battle

Crossmaglen Rangers player Caolan Finnegan has passed away at the age of 20.

In August 2023, Caolan, or Stringer, as he was widely known to his friends, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Days after playing in the Armagh senior championship for his club against Clan na Gael, Caolan was preparing for surgery to remove a brain tumour.

Caolan represented Armagh at all underage grades and is a past pupil of St Joseph's Crossmaglen and St Colman's College Newry.

He played with great distinction for all teams.

Throughout his treatment, Coalan, his family, friends and community displayed tremendous courage and bravery.

"Caolan lost his battle earlier this morning," the Crossmaglen Rangers club said on social media.

"A battle he fought with enormous courage, strength and dignity.

"We are so proud of you, Caolan. A true Ranger. You will forever be remembered as one of the greatest who ever donned the black and amber. Forever in our hearts. Rest in peace, Stringer," the club added.

A brilliant footballer, Armagh boss Kieran McGeeney had stated in the aftermath of his side’s All-Ireland triumph that Finnegan would almost certainly have been part of the Orchard County’s squad but for his illness.

Armagh captain Aidan Forker visited him after that win whilst former Celtic manager and Lurgan native Neil Lennon also visited him in recent times.