By Michael McMullan

CAVAN GAA will meet “as soon as possible” to a process in place to appoint new senior football manager.

It comes after Mickey Graham’s decision on Monday to step down after five years in the post.

The Cavan Gaels man, who had an original three-year term, had one year left of an extension but “serious considerations” made the decision to step away.

After a career in Cavan’s attack, Graham had a stint as county minor manager and took Longford side Mullinalaghta to a Leinster Club title before stepping in the Breffni senior hotseat for the 2019 season

His term saw Cavan win the 2020 Ulster Championship. After overseeing Cavan’s demise to Division Four, he regrouped to win the secure back-to-back promotions, leaving the new manager taking over in Divison To next season.

Cavan were seconds away from winning the Tailteann Cup until Kieran Martin’s winning goal for Westmeath in last year’s decider.

“After serious considerations Mickey Graham has decided to step away from his role as Cavan Senior Football Team Manager,” read a statement from Cavan GAA.

Through the statement, Graham thanked the players and management teams for their “commitment and dedication” during his time as manager. He thanks the County Board and clubs for their “outstanding support” during his five seasons.

“Mickey brought great passion to Cavan football as a player, development squad coach and manager,” the statement continued.

“Cavan Co Board would like to thank Mickey for his enormous contribution to Cavan Football and Cavan GAA especially during his time as manager of the senior football team.

“We congratulate him on his successes during his tenure and wish him every success in his future.

“We will meet as a board as soon as possible to put a process in place.”