Rory Gallagher has emerged as the hot favourite to be named as the new Fermanagh manager in what would be a major coup for the Erne County.

The former Fermanagh star stepped down as Donegal boss at the end of July and now looks set for a possible return to his native county to fill the post vacated by Pete McGrath.

Fermanagh chiefs have remained tight lipped on who is in the running for the post but it is understood that Gallagher has been the number one target from the outset to take over the hot seat and it is believed that he met county officials last week to discuss the possibility of taking over the position.

Indeed, it is possible that the new man will be confirmed on Monday night with Sean Burns, a member of the five man Selection Committee tasked with appointing the new manager, stating that it was always the plan to put forward a name for ratification at Monday night’s County Board meeting.

Burns, who refused be drawn on names and insisted that nothing has been finalised with any candidate, stated: “When we started the process a couple of weeks ago the plan was always to have a candidate to put forward for ratification at the County Board meeting and that is still the case.

“I would say though that nothing has been finalised with anybody yet.”

Gallagher served as assistant manager to Jim McGuinness for three years during which time Donegal secured Sam Maguire and after a year away from the senior set up he returned to take over the manager’s position after McGuinness quit the role.

The Belleek native, who is highly regarded by those who have played under him, was in charge of Donegal for the last three seasons before stepping down when Donegal’s season came to a close with defeat to Galway in the All Ireland Qualifiers.