Kieran McGeeney will prepare for the Allianz National League by blooding a host of youngsters in the upcoming Dr McKenna Cup.
The Orchard County haven’t tasted success in the the seasoning opening competition since 1994 when they registered
their ninth success.
However, McGeeney will be looking for a tenth success this term but will do so by placing his trust in the younger bred.
Armagh have already collected silverware this season by way of the O’Faigh Cup, but despite the McKenna Cup never being considered a pre-season priority, it’s another step up in quality.
Ruairi McCaughley, Joe McElroy, Shea Heffon, Ciaran Higgins, Ben Crealey, Conor White and Anthony Duffy are among the players who will be given the opportunity following that success before Christmas.
“We have a good group of guys in this Armagh squad but obviously you need a decent ration of experience. Our biggest task will be to try and get the best 15 players we can on the pitch on any given day,” said McGeeney.
“Some of the players were blooded earlier this year and others have come on board since and the big task will be to get the right balance in the side. Sometimes I think we are a wee bit harsher on our players than we should be but then ultimately our game is all about the Championship.
“You can do terrible in the league but if you do well in the Championship that will be forgotten, you will be grand then.”
Armagh begin their campaign away to Derry this Sunday (January 8) in Owenbeg.
