Erne Gaels forward Dan McCann is targeting Fermanagh senior glory after battling back from a seven-month injury lay-off, as the Belleek side bid for a historic third successive New York Cup.

McCann has worked tirelessly to get back to full fitness and he has made an impressive return during Erne Gaels’ campaign, with the champions just one victory away from another piece of history.

For the young Belleek forward, the road back has been demanding, but the support around him has helped make the process that little bit easier.

“It has been a long year with the injury and a lot of hard work to get back,” McCann told the ‘Herald.

“Hopefully, I can go out now and perform. Things have gone reasonably well so far, but there are still a few levels I want to get to.”

McCann said the patience and encouragement he received during his recovery were invaluable, particularly in the aftermath of surgery.

“There has been great support around me over the last seven months. People have given me the time to heal and make sure my body is right and I’ve had a good team around me,” he said.

“They’ve helped me out, particularly after surgery, even with things around the house.”

Back to his best

His return has come at an important time for Erne Gaels, who face Derrygonnelly in the Fermanagh final at Brewster Park, with a third consecutive New York Cup crown within reach.

The Belleek men have enjoyed a strong championship campaign, overcoming Irvinestown, Lisnaskea and Derrygonnelly in the group stages, before defeating Ederney in the semi-final.

However, McCann knows the challenge that awaits against a Derrygonnelly side keen to win their 11th county title.

“We know Derrygonnelly well. They’re a big, physical, strong team and you have to be at your best to beat them,” he said.

“We got the better of them in the group stage, but it’s a different game now. We have to focus on bringing that performance from one to 15.

“We’ll put a big focus on that and on bringing the right energy.”

Erne Gaels have also welcomed the arrival of new management, with McCann praising Barry O’Hagan and Aidan Lloyd for the impact they have made within the setup.

“They’ve brought a new voice into the setup and it’s about seeing where we can improve and identifying the things we’re doing well. It’s great to have them involved,” added McCann.

The strength of leadership within the squad has also been important, with McCann pointing to the experience of players who have represented Fermanagh at county level.

Leadership qualities

“We’re lucky to be in the position of having leadership throughout the squad,” he said.

“Ryan [Lyons] and Ultán [Kelm] have county experience and they help guide the group, sharing what they’ve learned. We’re fortunate to have leaders throughout the team.”

For McCann, the prospect of competing in a county final makes the hard work of the past seven months all the more worthwhile.

“There’s always excitement around a final. You try to embrace the whole build-up and enjoy it, because finals don’t come around too often. Hopefully, we can go out and perform,” McCann said.

“It has given a lot to the community and it’s a privilege to be in this position. It’s great to see what it means to families and friends and that makes it very special.”