McGuinness challenges eight-week sideline suspension

Donegal manager Jim McGuinness has challenged the eight-week sideline suspension he was given for fielding an ineligible player in the McKenna Cup.

Finbarr Roarty, then 17, featured in Donegal's opening win in the competition over Armagh last week.

Roarty's inclusion appeared to break the rule which says senior inter-county players have to be aged 18 by the start of the calendar year.

McGuinness has requested a hearing with the Ulster GAA hearings committee.

That is likely to take place on Thursday evening.

If the punishment is not overturned, McGuinness will have the option of taking an appeal to Croke Park Central Appeals Committee, with the the Disputes Resolution Authority the final appeals forum available.

Donegal lost the points from their 3-16 to 1-6 win over Armagh last Wednesday, but the county are not appealing that.

The points are not awarded to the Orchard County, however, as they did not appeal.

Naomh Conaill youngster Roarty, who hasn't played a senior game for his club, turned 18 on Thursday but competition rules for senior inter-county football state players must be 18 by the start of that calendar year to be eligible to play.

McGuinness was appointed as boss for a second time in August, having led them to All-Ireland title success in 2012 during his first spell in charge.

Roarty, who cannot play for the senior panel this season due to his age, has also been handed a two-week suspension.