Gaelic Games All-Star Goalkeeper Selection for 2024

As the awards season for gaelic games is underway, John Haughey has put forward his choices for the players he believes merit the All-Star accolade for 2024. His initial focus is on the goalkeeper position. Blaine Hughes of Armagh is considered a strong contender, and likely the favorite, to secure the number one jersey. This follows a season in which he achieved 14 clean sheets in 17 competitive games, though the county’s defensive systems undoubtedly contributed to this record. Many had anticipated that Ethan Rafferty’s return to full fitness would result in Hughes losing his starting role, but manager McGeeney maintained his trust in the Carrickcruppen player, a decision that was fully vindicated. It was revealed after the All-Ireland Final victory over Galway that Hughes had sustained an impact injury to his right knee after colliding with teammate Joe McElroy during the warm-up. Consequently, Hughes used his weaker left foot for kick-outs on several occasions during the match, yet he consistently demonstrated his customary assurance in finding teammates, an essential aspect of the modern game. The contest for the goalkeeping jersey is an Ulster-dominated affair, with Tyrone’s Niall Morgan and Donegal’s Shaun Patton also in consideration; however, it would be surprising if Hughes is not ultimately chosen.