Crossmaglen footballer Caolan Finnegan, 20, dies after cancer battle

Caolan was just 20 years old.

Crossmaglen footballer Caolan Finnegan has died one year after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer.

The footballer was just 20 years old, and last played for his club in 2023.

In a social media post on Friday morning, Crossmaglen announced that Caolan "lost his battle earlier this morning."

The club said that Caolan "fought with enormous courage, strength and dignity."

"We are so proud of you, Caolan.

"You will be forever remembered as one of the greatest who ever donned the black and amber.

"Rest in peace Stringer."

Following Armagh's All-Ireland victory, manager Kieran McGeeney said that Caolan would have been part of the squad were it not for his illness.

Armagh captain Aidan Forker visited Finnegan with the Sam Maguire Cup.

Armagh player Oisin O'Neill, Finnegan's club-mate, wore a t-shirt publicising the campaign to raise funds for his treatment during a press conference at Croke Park after the county’s All-Ireland win.

In recent months, a fundraising drive has raised over £300,000 to help Caolan receive treatment. The funds enabled Finnegan to travel to Germany multiple times for specialised treatment.

A week ago, Finnegan’s club called for "prayers" for the 20-year-old. Caolan passed away on Friday morning.