Liam McHale: Mayo exit down to philosophical differences

Mayo GAA great Liam McHale said his decision to depart Kevin McStay's management team after just one season was down to having a "totally different philosophy" to the rest of the coaching staff.

McHale was a notable name when McStay was announced as James Horan’s successor, along with the likes of Stephen Rochford and Donie Buckley.

Speaking to Ballina Community Radio, the 1996 All-Star said that he was surprised with the outcome having worked closely with his brother-in-law McStay with St Brigid’s previously.

"It is difficult," he said said of the decision to step away.

"There were five of us there and the four lads had a totally different philosophy on how this team should play than what I had. I was surprised at Kevin because normally we would be in sync, but I just felt that there is no point in me being there when I am so far removed from their thinking.

"I didn’t want to drag anybody down or I didn’t want to upset the flow of the whole thing. I thought it was the right thing to do."

Even though McHale’s stint was just one season, he said it was a great experience getting to know the panel.

"I really enjoyed getting to know the boys.

"It was great because I wouldn’t have known most of the senior lads. I would have known Conor Loftus from coaching him in basketball. I would have known Kevin McLoughlin from meeting him around the place.

"But I never really had a chat with Aidan [O’Shea] or Cillian [O’Connor] or Diarmuid [O’Connor] or Jason [Doherty] or any of the other lads. I knew Stephen Coen, believe it or not, because he was a lifeguard when he was 18 years of age down in Ross [beach].

"I was happy that I went in and got to know the boys and I’d like to think any of them now could feel they could give me a call if they