It took Declan Bonner a couple of meetings before Frank McGlynn gave him the nod that he’d be back.
Sunday’s Ulster final was the Glenfin man’s 60th Championship game for Donegal and the born-again McGlynn’s 162nd county appearance.
An All-Star in 2012 when Donegal won the All-Ireland, McGlynn has been a real fans’ favourite but even he admits he thought the good days had been and gone.
“I had nearly given up hope of it at the end of 2017,” McGlynn said.
“I had a lot of thinking to do, but I knew Declan was coming in to win and he convinced me to go again.”
A central figure in Donegal’s Ulster wins in 2011, 2012 and 2014, McGlynn is once again a key player for Bonner this year.
Sunday’s was his fourth Ulster final win and came after three long, painful summers up the Clones hill.
McGlynn said: “It feels like a long time since 2014. We lost two finals since and it’s been a long way back.
“The defeat to Tyrone last year was hard to take too, but Declan rejuvenated it with new legs and fresh players. The speed they have going forward was a joy to behold.
“We have a good group. There’s a good bond and everyone is mixing well.”
And McGlynn has enjoyed being back in harness again.
He said: “It’s been good. I’ve had a steady run with no injuries. I have confidence in my body again and in the way I’m playing.”
