Red Hand understrength for Down tie

Tyrone will be without several regulars for Sunday’s Gaelic Life Dr McKenna Cup opener against Down at Newry.

All-Ireland winning skipper Brian Dooher is recovering following groin surgery, while Brian McGuigan is also recuperating from surgery on an ankle.

Goalkeeper Pascal McConnell has been ruled out for two months after dislocating a kneecap.

And Ryan McMenamin and Colm McCullagh will play no part in the pre-season competition, having been omitted from the 30-man squad to help accommodate nine newcomers.

The All-Ireland champions are currently on holiday in Orlando, Florida. They return home later this week to make a belated start to their McKenna Cup campaign.