James McCartan has stepped down as the Down senior football manager.
The county board announced on Monday evening that McCartan had made the decision after 'considerable thought during the past few weeks'.
It was a second spell in charge of his native county for McCartan but this time his reign only lasted a single season.
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Expectations were high amongst Down fans on McCartan's return, with the Burren clubman having led them to an All-Ireland final in 2010.
But it was a frustrating season for the Mourne Men and McCartan. They weren't able to register a single victory amidst their relegation from Division Two before losses to Monaghan in their Ulster opener and against Cavan in the first round of the Tailteann Cup.
The county board commented: "Down GAA wish to place on record our gratitude to James, Aidan O'Rourke, Ronan McMahon and the entire coaching and backroom team for their work during the 2022 season.
"James McCartan will always be regarded as an iconic figure of Down football. He has given outstanding service to his county as a player and manager, and we wish him well
"Cumann Luthchleas Gael an Duin will now commence the process to appoint a new manager."
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