Armagh star Rian O'Neill keen to return to county duty for 2027 season

Following his year out Armagh star Rian O’Neill is looking forward to returning to county duty for the 2027 season.

“I love playing for Armagh. I missed out last year for my own reasons but the hunger is back. Absolutely I’d be keen to get back. Teams aren’t back until after Christmas so we’ll worry ability that when we come to it,” enthused the 28-year-old.

Along with his brothers Oisin and Aaron, O’Neill played a key role in the crowning of Crossmaglen as county champions for a 48th time by defeating Killeavy in a thrilling final. He was central to the only goal of the contest, cleverly winning possession far out before delivering a long kick pass to his brother Oisin who set up Pearse Blessing for the crucial score that changed momentum.

He also spoke of the added significance of that final triumph.

“This group has been through a lot and sometimes those dark days will make you want to do it for a higher purpose than yourself,” he added.

It’s great to see the smiles on the faces of Crossmaglen supporters again. We want to drive this club on again because for 20 years we were the pinnacle of clubs in Ireland but it doesn’t always stay that way.

“Teams get better, we lost players and lads emigrated. We’re trying to drive it on and inspire the next generation of Cross players because it’s a massive tradition where we come from.”

Next up is an Ulster campaign, and a quarter-final away game to Cavan champions Gowna and O’Neill is confident the newly crowned Armagh champions will give it a fair rattle.

With Rian back and the youngest of the brothers Aaron, moving up from the U20 ranks, Armagh will have three brothers in the squad.for the first time since the days of the O’Rourke’s from Dromintee, Aiden, Cathal and Martin.