Aidan Forker hails Aaron McKay’s ‘great sense of purpose’
With Armagh captain Aidan Forker side-lined with a calf injury, Dromintee’s Aaron McKay is set to lead the Orchard County into battle in this Sunday’s Ulster Final against Monaghan.
McKay scored one of the most famous goals in Armagh’s history on the 28th of July 2024, with his palmed effort proving decisive as they defeated Galway 1-11 to 0-13 in the All-Ireland final.
Ahead of this Sunday, Forker was asked as to whether the full back’s career will be defined by that moment.
“I don’t see it like that whatsoever,” Forker told the media.
“Aaron would be a good friend of mine, I played with him for ten years, if people want to think that about him, I suppose you could think of worse.”
Forker explained what drives McKay to success, referencing the tragic passing of his childhood friend Peter Hughes.
“That is not Aaron’s drive, Aaron is a proud Armagh man,” said Forker.
“I don’t think I am speaking out of turn; one of his best friends died in their teenage years and I know that drives Aaron a lot, because he was a great footballer and he probably would have played for Armagh.
“Aaron strikes you as person who lives life with a great sense of purpose when he pulls on that Armagh jersey. I think that is what drives Aaron.”
Forker also talked about McKay’s personality and what he brings to the group, saying that he ‘can’t speak highly enough’ of the team’s vice captain.
“He is the joker. Aaron is a great person. He has that tough exterior but behind it, he is soft.
“He is a very measured person and a great leader in our group and he leads by doing and by challenging people.
“He is a special needs teacher in the south. I couldn’t speak highly enough of Aaron; since 2024 he never really featured. He has significant injuries, groin issues, hip issues and he continued to contribute heavily to the group even though he was rehabbing and getting setback after setback.
“So, I am absolutely delighted that he is injury free again, because he is a great leader in defence and he is solid as a rock, he is a great player for us and a great leader and he has been very, very good and a great person...” and Forker finished with a wry smile, “Don’t tell him though.”