McKinless expects Gallagher return to Derry amid communication issues

Gareth McKinless, a player for Derry, expressed that the prospect of former manager Rory Gallagher's return was always a topic of discussion within the county, especially after Gallagher stepped down amid abuse allegations in May 2023, which he has denied. After Gallagher left, Derry struggled under the management of Mickey Harte, winning the Allianz League Division One title but failing to maintain their success, including a significant loss in the Ulster championship and subsequent relegation. McKinless noted a breakdown in communication during Gallagher's resignation process, which he believes impacted team dynamics and morale. Although Gallagher aimed to return to management, he was not reinstated; instead, Paddy Tally was appointed as the new manager. Derry's performance has significantly declined since Gallagher's departure, leading to concerns among players about their competitive edge. The situation highlights the challenges faced by the team as they navigate management changes and player morale.