By Michael McMullan

MAGHERAFELT have a new senior football management team in place for the 2022 season, Gaelic Life can confirm.

Damian Barton and Brian McGuckin have been appointed as a joint ticket to succeed Adrian Cush, who stepped down after four seasons in the post.

The duo were teaching colleagues in St Patrick’s Dungannon and McGuckin was number two to Barton during his tenure as Derry manager.

MANAGEMENT DUO…Brian McGuckin and Damian Barton will take charge of Magherafelt next season Picture:  Oliver McVeigh/Sportsfile

Barton had a spell as manager of Tyrone side Edendork since his stint as Derry boss, while McGuckin led Coalisland on a pulsating journey to last season’s county final.

The duo take over from Cush who managed Rossa to the 2019 senior championship and back to the final 12 months later.

Magherafelt were knocked out by Coleraine, after extra-time, in last season’s campaign.

The latest appointment in Derry comes on the back of the news that Paul Bradley will stay on as Sleacht Néill manager, with his management team still to be finalised.

Glen also look set to appoint Malachy O’Rourke for a second season.