Fermanagh footballers aren't given enough credit says skipper Declan McCusker

Declan McCusker has over a decade put down with Fermanagh now.

McCusker made his debut in the 2011 qualifier defeat by London at Ruislip - “a dark day for Fermanagh football.”

But it didn’t deter him and he continues to come back for more.

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McCusker says it’s the challenge of trying to improve that keeps him going - and his latest target is the Tailteann Cup.

Fermanagh open their challenge against Longford at Pearse Park this Saturday evening (5.30pm).

“I don't know, I just love it,” says McCusker.

“It's just always been my life. I suppose when I was younger, I was never a super star. I was never the main man in schools' teams.

“I didn't start (for the) county minors. I've always tried to get better, and I've always wanted to play county football. Ever since I've got in, I've just enjoyed it.

“The craic you have with the boys is just brilliant. When you get a run, and you're playing in those big Championship games, it's just unbelievable. I just love it.

“My family are mad into football. They like coming to games, and following Fermanagh.

“My wife too, she's big into it. I think it's a bit of motivation when they're so into it, and you know that they're getting enjoyment out of it as well.”

McCusker feels Fermanagh don’t always get the respect they deserve.

“Sometimes we're maybe seen as a 'nice' team,” he says. “Even when we have done well, it's forgotten about quickly.

“Us and Antrim sometimes are seen as the bottom two teams in Ulster.

“In 2019, we were one game away from going up to Division 1. People seem to forget about that stuff quickly.

“I'm a big believer that the leagues don't lie. You are where you are supposed to be.

“At the minute, we're a