Jim McGuinness: Donegal manager gets eight-week sideline ban for fielding ineligible player

Jim McGuinness, who guided Donegal to the All-Ireland in 2012, was appointed manager for the second time in August

Donegal manager Jim McGuinness has been given an eight-week sideline suspension for fielding an ineligible player in the McKenna Cup against Armagh.

Finbarr Roarty, then 17, featured in Donegal's opening McKenna Cup win on Wednesday.

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.

Donegal also lose the points from their 3-16 to 1-6 win over Armagh.

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

Ulster GAA has not commented as yet, while Donegal can request a hearing to appeal the penalty against McGuinness.

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.

After beating Tyrone in their second match on Sunday, McGuinness said he had "no idea" whether he would face a sanction for fielding Roarty, but indicated he would appeal.

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.