Tyrone GAA chairman Liam Nelis has apologised to Eugene McKenna and his family for the hurt they have suffered as a result during the county management saga.

Speaking at a press conference to introduce new boss Mickey Harte, Nelis said a number of people had been hurt during the past few weeks but singled out McKenna for special mention.

McKenna accepted another term in the job along with Art McRory on 2 October but less than three weeks later, the Augher man lost the position.

McRory told the Tyrone county board that he wanted to take a leave of absence from the job because of health problems.

He requested that McKenna should be allowed to take the reins on his own until Christmas but Tyrone officials refused to agree to the suggestion and declared the position vacant.

McKenna re-applied for the position but last week the county board announced that Errigal Ciaran boss Harte had been appointed.

Harte revealed on Tuesday that Galbally clubman Paddy Tally will be his assistant.

Contrary to earlier reports Augher man Tony Donnelly will not be part of the management team but Father Gerard McAleer, who worked with Harte at county minor and U21 level is expected to be involved.