'Forgotten' Brennan's return a boost for Tyrone

Oisin McConville believes the return of Trillick's Rory Brennan to the Tyrone squad since Malachy O'Rourke arrival as manager can boost the Red Hands.

Brennan was a constant in the Tyrone panel between 2016 and 2022 and won an All-Ireland medal in 2021 although he didn't feature in the final against Mayo.

He opted out of the Tyrone squad after the 2022 season but has now returned and he came on a second-half substitute in Saturday's opening Allianz Division One League win over Derry.

"Rory Brennan was very much a forgotten player and how good he was when he was going well. It was good to see him back," McConville told The GAA Social on BBC Sounds.

The resident GAA Social contributor was also impressed by corner-back Michael McKernan's display against Derry which included notching 1-2.

McKernan has always been keen to help the Tyrone attack and McConville believes the new 3v3 rule will give the corner-back even more licence to roam forward.

"Michael McKernan will have the freedom to go forward a bit now because you know you're definitely covered at the back."

McConville added that Derry "didn't seem flustered" after losing the game.

"They are obviously still getting used to Paddy Tally. It was probably more important for Malachy O'Rourke to get that win at home.

"I was impressed with Tyrone and I wouldn't have expected anything else even though they were missing their Errigal Ciaran players.

"They looked as if they have a good bit done. It was an impressive win because they struggled in Division One last year."