Michael Langan returns to Donegal panel as McGuinness rings the changes once more

Donegal manager Jim McGuinness has announced the starting 15 for Sunday's crucial league Division 1 clash against Mayo in Castlebar as he makes 11 changes from his side’s defeat to Tyrone last weekend, with Michael Langan returning to the Donegal bench.  

The St Michael’s man returns to the panel for the first time since February when he picked up an injury during Donegal’s league clash against Kerry in Killarney. 

Naomh Columba’s Aaron Doherty has also returned from injury and is back in the panel for the first time since last July. 

A victory over Mayo could put them in contention for a league decider next week, despite being reliant on results elsewhere.

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However, in recent weeks there is a question mark over whether Donegal truly wants to make the final. With the Ulster Championship looming, McGuinness may prefer to keep his side fresh rather than risk burnout or injuries in a high-stakes league decider.  

Despite this, the Donegal manager has made a handful of changes with some noticeable faces with already plenty of game time under their belts returning to the starting team. 

Notably, Shaun Patton returns to his position between the posts, replacing Gavin Mulreany, who started against Tyrone, while the defensive line sees Stephen McMenamin making his starting debut this season and he is joined alongside the returning Brendan McCole.  

In the half-back line, Ryan McHugh and Caolan McGonagle are introduced, with Odhran McFadden Ferry making way. 

The midfield pairing sees Hugh McFadden retain his starting position and he will be partnered alongside Ciarán Moore.  

The half-forward line is entirely revamped as the scoring threat of Dáire Ó Baoill, Ciaran Thompson, and Shane O'Donnell all return to the panel, while up front, Luke McGlynn and Conor O'Donnell start in place of Michael Murphy and Charles McGuinness, with Niall O’Donnell completing the full-forward line.  

The match is scheduled for a 3.45pm throw-in at McHale Park and will be available to stream on TG4’s YouTube channel, TG4 Spórt. 

Donegal team to face Mayo: Shaun Patton; Finnbarr Roarty, Stephen McMenamin, Brendan McCole; Ryan McHugh, Caolan McGonagle, Caolan McColgan; Hugh McFadden, Ciarán Moore; Dáire Ó Baoill, Ciaran Thompson, Shane O'Donnell; Niall O'Donnell, Conor O'Donnell, Luke McGlynn.