Crossmaglen's Paul Hearty seems likely to occupy the Armagh goalkeeping jersey in 2003.

Armagh boss Joe Kernan has confirmed that Benny Tierney will be taking something of a backseat next year.

"Benny has told us that he won't be able to give us full commitment next year but he will be remaining on with the squad," said Kernan.

"He will be coaching the goalkeepers and he will still be available to play for us if the need arises," added the Armagh boss.

Armagh for Croker?

Kernan added that he had been "disappointed" that Tierney was not nominated for an Allstar award.

The Mullaghbawn custodian was the first All-Ireland goalkeeper winner not be nominated for an Allstar since the scheme started in the early 1970s.

Meanwhile, the GAA have said that Croke Park could be used to stage Armagh's opening Allianz National Football League game against Dublin on 2 February.

Armagh want the game to be staged at headquarters rather than Parnell Park because of the large amount of supporters who would want to see the All-Ireland Champions in action.

Parnell Park is capable of accommodating only 10,000.