McGrath resigns as Down U21 boss

McGrath gives instructions during the All-Ireland U21 final

Pete McGrath has quit as Down U21 manager after he was beaten to the senior job by James McCartan.

McGrath took Down to All-Ireland titles in 1991 and 1994 and he guided the U21s to the All-Ireland decider in May.

"Given what happened with the position of senior manager, I felt I'd no option but to walk away to keep my self-esteem and honour intact," he said.

"There has been too much personal hurt, pain, suffering and baggage for me to continue as manager of the U21 team."

McGrath also managed the Down minors to All-Ireland glory in 1987.

He said he was unhappy with some of the questions posed by the Down selection committee, with one asking him whether he still possessed the necessary passion and enthusiasm to manage at senior level.

"Obviously the decision of the Down board with regard to the senior team manager showed there was no genuine appreciation and recognition for what I had achieved with the U21 team," he told the Irish News.

McGrath still hopes to manage at senior inter-county level although he has confirmed he will continue as Bryansford club boss in 2010.

Down chairman Kevin Bell, who was not on the selection committee, has hinted that he wanted McGrath to be Ross Carr's successor.

"He won two senior All-Irelands, one minor All-Ireland and was a minute away from winning an All-Ireland U21 title," he said.

"He also won two Ulster U21 titles - a CV like that would get you most posts.

"I think he is the type of man we needed, but he is the type of man that every county needs.

"This is a sad day for Down football. Peter is a wonderful ambassador for Down football and an absolute gentleman."