Ros' search for new boss as Newton resigns

The Dublin-based Newton has informed Roscommon chiefs of his decision to step down after a rollercoaster rookie campaign including more lows than highs.

They finished fourth in Division Three of the league, opened their championship campaign with an embarrassing 14-point defeat at home to Galway, recovered to take Armagh's qualifier scalp but then succumbed to Tyrone, falling away badly in the second half to lose by 11.

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Newton's declaration after the Tyrone game, talking about the need to play at a higher league level and citing this as the "first target for next year", suggested he was planning to stay around.

Two months later, that is no longer the case and sources suggest there was a level of local disquiet about the team's direction.

None of this was apparent in a brief county board statement confirming that the former Roscommon defender had stepped down from the hotseat.

"The board would like to acknowledge the contribution of Des and his management team and wish them well in the future.

"The board will meet next week to discuss the process of appointing his successor," the statement read.

Newton's exit brings to 12 the number of managerial departures from inter-county football this season.

However, one man who looks to be staying put is James McCartan, despite initial speculation that he would quit as Down boss after their crushing All-Ireland SFC quarter-final defeat to Mayo.

McCartan, who led Down to the 2010 All-Ireland final (losing to Cork) in his debut season, looks to have the support of his panel, based on the words of veteran forward Benny Coulter.

"For the greater good of Down football I hope that James will continue as manager," said Coulter recently.