GOOD TIMES…Ciaran McKeever believes that Down will have more reason to celebrate this year

GAELIC Life columnist Ciaran McKeever has backed Down to build on last year’s progress by securing promotion from Division Two.

Writing in this week’s edition, the former Armagh defender outlines how he thinks the four divisions will pan out as the National Football League prepares to throw in this weekend.

And he has tipped his former rivals to move up a division having unexpectedly reached last year’s Ulster final.

“Cork, under new management, will be in rebuilding mode as they deal with a series of retirements so it really leaves the door open for other teams. Those sides are Clare, Meath and Down. Consistency is a problem for all three, but if any of them can get a good run going then they could really make a push for Division One football in 2019. I’m going to make a bold enough prediction and go for Down and Clare to earn promotion.”

There full column is available in today’s Gaelic Life, in stores now or available onlie here.