Evan O’Carroll’s injury absence forces Laois GAA footballers to seek new leaders for 2025

The Laois Senior football team will get their 2025 season underway this weekend albeit without their captain from 2024, Evan O’Carroll, who suffered an knee injury while playing for Leinster during the Inter-Provincial games in October of last year.

The Crettyard forward, known for his direct running and long-range scoring, sustained the injury while showcasing the new Gaelic Football rules in Croke Park.

The injury leaves a void in leadership and attacking prowess, but Laois manager McNulty is optimistic about the squad’s depth. “We have quite a few options. There's good maturity amongst the group. There are lots of fellas putting their hands up, which is very, very positive,” he said.

While no decision has been made regarding the 2025 captaincy, McNulty emphasised the importance of collective leadership: “Even though we have a young squad and that's exciting too, there are wise old heads in the group who are determined to step up and be leaders on the pitch. We expect much more than one captain here. We expect multiple leaders across the pitch.”

O’Carroll’s absence will be felt, particularly under the new rules, which emphasise two-pointers and goal-scoring opportunities. “I think these rules would be right up Evan's street,” McNulty remarked. “That's a huge loss for us, no doubt, but thankfully his operation has gone well, and hopefully, he'll make a full recovery. We wish him well for his rehab.”

Despite the setback, McNulty highlighted the potential of younger players to step up: “We have fellas who are showing a huge propensity to be lethal up front, and we're excited about the prospects of some of the young fellas stepping up to fill Evan's boots, so to speak.”

The Laois manager also welcomed the return of players who missed the 2024 season due to injury, including Padraig Kirwan and Ryan Brady. “Pa is back at full tilt and Ryan's not far away, so we're excited to see what he can bring,” McNulty said.

As Laois prepares for the league, McNulty is hopeful for a near-fully fit squad by the second or third round. “There are a few niggles there, but we're working through them all. Sean Fitz is coming back into full fitness as well. So, we're thereabouts in terms of actually having a fully fit squad, which is exciting.”

Reflecting on changes to the panel, McNulty noted the absence of some players from last year but praised the current panel of 37 for their energy and potential. “They've got a bit of cut about them, a bit of teeth about them, they're determined to prove themselves,” he said.

McNulty acknowledged the wider opportunities available to young people today and how these sometimes lead players to step away from county football. “This generation has great possibilities in so many different arenas. Some players just decide that County Football is not for them for a year. Our door is always open if the opportunity arises for people to change their minds,” he said.

As the 2025 season approaches, McNulty is optimistic about the progress and commitment of his squad: “We are focused on the 37 fellas we have with us right now who've demonstrated a huge commitment, who've demonstrated a huge energy and positivity. We had a hugely energetic session this evening, and that bodes well for Saturday week, although it doesn't guarantee anything.”

Laois will travel to Ballinamore on Saturday, January 25 to take on Leitrim from 2.30pm.