Joe Kernan is leading Armagh into another league campaign

The Orchard County lost to Donegal in Sunday's McKenna Cup semi-final but Kernan was not too despondent.

He will have his students back for the league which starts on Sunday with a tricky Division 1B trip to Kildare.

"There will be a lot of new faces because of the good performances some of the young lads produced in the McKenna Cup," said Kernan.

"I did not think we would be in the semi-finals, but games do not do any harm.

"We have had a lot of injuries and boys away so I am not sure what sort of squad we are going to have.

"Having the six college lads back will make a big difference.

"I am disappointed we lost on Sunday considering the amount of possession we had.

"But I was pleased they fought to the end against an experienced Donegal side.

"Kildare will be a tough start. They beat us in Cross last year.

"Hopefully our injuries are not too bad and we have enough fully fit men."