DUBLIN FOOTBALL manager Pat Gilroy has named Kilmacud Crokes All-Ireland club winner Paul Griffin as captain for 2009 on the same day the retirement of former captain Collie Moran was confirmed. Barry Cahill has been named vice-captain.
The 25-year-old Griffin, a chartered physiotherapist, has been part of the Dublin panel for seven years after former manager Tommy Lyons promoted him straight from the minor ranks.
“Both players have huge respect within the squad and it was apparent to the management team that Paul and Barry were natural leaders within the group,” said Gilroy.
On Moran’s retirement due to a hip injury, he added: “Collie was a great ambassador for all that is good in the GAA. He was always willing to put the team first and always did whatever was requested of him.”
Bernard Brogan, Diarmuid Connolly, Mark Vaughan, Conal Keaney, Eamon Fennell and Kevin Nolan are currently absent through injury or illness. They have all been included in a reduced panel.