Tyrone’s football landscape is evolving as the recent U20 All-Ireland champions integrate into the senior squad. Joey Clarke, captain of the victorious U20 team, is among those making this transition.
Tyrone U20 Captain Joins Senior Squad
Joey Clarke has officially joined the Tyrone senior panel for the 2026 season. This announcement follows Tyrone’s triumph over Louth in the All-Ireland U20 final, which took place at the Box-It Athletic Grounds.
Successors on the Senior Squad
Clarke is not alone in his promotion. Conor O’Neill, also from Donaghmore, has been added to the senior ranks. Additionally, 2022 U20 winner Ruairi McHugh from Coalisland is another new face on the team.
- Joey Clarke – U20 captain and new senior squad member
- Conor O’Neill – New senior squad member from Donaghmore
- Ruairi McHugh – 2022 U20 winner now joining the seniors
Clarke’s promotion marks the third consecutive year that an All-Ireland U20 captain has moved up to the senior team. He joins the ranks of Niall Devlin (2022) and Michael Rafferty (2024). Eoin McElholm and Shea O’Hare also made the jump last season.
Clarke’s Commitment to Senior Football
In an interview with Belfast Live, Clarke expressed his eagerness to contribute at the senior level. “It’s an honour to captain these lads,” he remarked. “The level of professionalism is exceptional. Everyone aims to make that step up to seniors.”
He underlined the legacy of past Tyrone teams and their successes, emphasizing a desire to replicate that history.
Potential Additions to the Senior Panel
Alongside Clarke’s promotion, Tyrone may benefit from the possible return of Conor McKenna for the next season. Currently, McKenna, an Eglish native, is considering a one-year extension with the Brisbane Lions in the AFL.
- 2021 All-Ireland SFC champion with Tyrone
- Resumed AFL career in 2023
- Won AFL Premiership title in 2024
Despite only appearing in five matches this season, McKenna played a pivotal role in leading Eglish to the intermediate championship semi-final, where they faced Moy.
Eglish is gearing up for an exciting final against Clonoe next Sunday in Dungannon, marking an important moment in the local championship.
