“We are looking at players in a different light from a few months ago.”
Sean Cavanagh would know better than most what these Tyrone players are capable of, having played with many of them for so long.
For years it has been clear to see that the talent pool in the county was as full as ever, but for one reason or another, tree was an inconsistency or an inability to push on and get over the line.
This year seen the rise of many new stars, players who were always there and there about, but not at the forefront of GAA fans minds when they think of that top tier level.
Speaking on The Sunday Game, former Tyrone captain Sean Cavanagh praises the Red Hand county for stepping up their game this season.
“As part of the noughties team, it’s great to see that the county has made another breakthrough.
"Within the camp there was a real quiet optimism"
Sean Cavanagh credits Feargal Logan and Brian Dooher for their impact in adding "freshness" to newly-crowned All-Ireland champions @TyroneGAALive #RTEGAA #TyroneGAA pic.twitter.com/gMfbc5MC9H
— The Sunday Game (@TheSundayGame) September 11, 2021
“In ’05 and ’08 we weren’t favourites [All-Ireland finals against Kerry] but we were able to put something together mid-season. This team have put something together mid-season.
“Tyrone like the feeling of going into games as underdogs but within the camp there was a real quiet optimism and confidence.
“What we have now are players that can see a game through. We are looking at players in a different light from a few months ago.
“You look at Burns, Meyler, McGeary and Sludden – people may not have know them – but look at them now they are superb footballers.”
In hailing the Tyrone management team led by Brian Dooher and Feargal Logan, Cavanagh added: “There is a real feeling of contentment within the county, real feel-good factor, that’s what the management have brought, a freshness and an energy.
“Coming through the other side of this pandemic, that’s what people have been looking for.”
