He is used to the questioning by now. Back in June, Antrim’s season came to an end with a home defeat to Cork and Neil McManus spent longer than most out on the pitch at Corrigan Park. He didn’t seek salvage from the wind and rain until every youngster had a photo or an autograph.
McManus then had to deal with a few reporters pondering if the 11-point defeat would be his last appearance for the Saffrons. He tactfully declined to answer until Cushendall’s club season was at an end.
Only then would he make his mind up regarding the 2023 campaign and, thankfully for Antrim, he’ll be back in the fold for at least another season.
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“I’ve always said that, if my body allows me to, I’ll try and maximise my career with Antrim,” said McManus.
“It is about making the years count rather than counting the years. First and foremost, I’m really enjoying being part of the panel.
"The young lads that are involved there now are, not only phenomenally talented, but they are a great bunch and I really enjoy playing with them.
“Obviously, we are playing in Division One and playing in the Leinster Championship - those are huge carrots.
“You want to be involved in the big days with Antrim and there are going to be some big days next year.”
While Antrim can look forward to some huge games next season, including home games against All-Ireland finalists Kilkenny in the League and Championship, the outlook hasn’t always been as optimistic for the Saffrons.
Indeed, the former skipper admitted he gave serious consideration to quitting the inter-county scene at the end of the 2017 season after Antrim lost out to Carlow in the final of the Christy Ring Cup
“I’ve taken it on a year-by-year basis for the past four or five years,” said McManus.
“Antrim were at a low ebb five years ago and I was definitely thinking of not coming back at that stage.
“I’ve taken huge joy out of the last three seasons and, hopefully, that will continue into next year.
“The split-season probably has helped in that you get a break between the county and club campaigns.
"After the county season, you can go on a holiday and not feel like you are missing out on too much. It is good to give the body a few weeks of down time and that probably does aid the decision from that point of view.”
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