Donegal captain Michael Murphy has admitted he is delighted with the new backroom team assembled by manager Jim McGuinness and says everything is in place for the forthcoming season ahead. 
Eyebrows were raised from within and outside of the county when McGuinness chose to dismiss assistant Rory Gallagher and video analyst Maxi Curran from their roles within the Donegal set-up earlier this year.
However, McGuinness moved swiftly to replace the axed duo bringing in former county stars Damien Diver, John Duffy and Paul McGonigle.
Murphy has been encouraged from meeting with them and believes they all have different attributes and assets that can contribute greatly to the Donegal set-up.
Murphy told the Irish News, “The new backroom team are great, I’ve met and spoke with all of them and you can see how enthusiastic they all are to be back involved with Donegal.
“Everyone knows about Damien Diver, he was a fantastic player and one of the best servants to ever play for Donegal.
“He’s so passionate about his football and that passion rubs off on players and that’s a great driving force to have around the place.
“John and Paul were also great players and bring different ideas and attributes that will help Jim in the overall scheme of things.
“Between the three of them there is a great balance and mix and it will without doubt strengthen our set-up.
“Everything is now in place for us to absolutely empty everything we have and fully commit.
Murphy will be hoping for a better season with Donegal in 2014 after a whirlwind 2012, Donegal were brought back to earth with a bump after a humbling 16 point hammering of Mayo ended their All-Ireland aspirations in 2013.
Murphy had great success in 2013 however with his club Glenswilly and led them to Donegal championship success and an Ulster club final.
He also captained the Irish International Rules side to a record breaking victory over the Aussies.
He was awarded with a civic reception last week by the Donegal County Council in recognition of his fantastic footballing achievements.