Galway look like they will have to start from scratch in their search for a new hurling manager after all three of the nominated candidates pulled out of the race.

Former county camogie and U21 boss Tony Ward withdrew his name from consideration on Monday and while it had been suggested that Franny Forde and Noel Larkin, both selectors under previous manager Micheál Donoghue, might combine forces, RTÉ Sport understands they are no longer interested in the position.

Donoghue, who ended Galway's long wait for All-Ireland glory in 2017, stepped down unexpectedly in August after four years in charge, and, in the wake of his departure, there was speculation that tension had developed with the county board over the funds available for team preparations.

This week's developments, following the recent public call from team sponsors Supermac's for the county board to detail where the money they provided has been spent, reinforces the perception that Galway GAA is dealing with a crisis.

They are also on the hunt for a new senior football manager, following the end of Kevin Walsh's five-year term last month, but three candidates remain for that post.

Two-time All-Ireland winner and ex U20 boss Padraic Joyce is believed to be the frontrunner for the job while Galway junior manager Matt Duggan and former Tipperary, Limerick and Laois manager Liam Kearns are also in contention.

Speaking at this morning's Connacht SFC draw on RTÉ Radio 1's Morning Ireland, Kevin McStay said: "There is too much going on in Galway at the minute. There's too much instability and it needs to be steadied up.

"As I understand it, there are a few good candidates in the field, and they are going to make their decision fairly soon. They need to."

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