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Where do you actually begin with Aidan O'Shea?

He’s one of the biggest names in Gaelic games- but many, don’t seem to like him?

He’s one of the greatest footballers in Mayo history, maybe even this generation, but he’s never won an All-Ireland.

Mayo have failed in their quest for Sam Maguire for more than half a century, but the embodiment of that failure, for some, is Aidan O’Shea. Why?

In a revealing episode of the GAA Social, Thomas & Oisin dive into who is Aidan O’Shea.

8 Connacht senior championships, Minor and U21. Two Allianz League titles and he’s played for Ireland in 2013 and 2015. He’s also three All-stars. That’s more than Willie Joe Padden, Dermot Flanagan, Kenneth Mortimer, Alan Dillon, James Nallen, James Horan, David Clarke & Andy Moran. But is he valued as highly?

There was the controversy in 2015/16 which led to a change of Mayo management with Noel Connelly & Pat Holmes in charge for one season. It remains a sore point.

He’s lived most of his life, to some degree in the public eye. An Irish Times column when at School studying the leaving Cert, cost him a place at DCU. There’s been harsh learnings along the way

What comes out in the podcast is the progressive modern voice Aidan O’Shea presents. He is hugely interesting, comfortable in his skin and doesn’t really care if he’s liked.

There’s been low points. Doubts, struggles and hand written letters to his parents home. His house too. Those closest have learned to intercept these ‘notes’ before they land. Dealing with social media and saying no, more than many would realise.

His devotion to Mayo is clear. What is the Mayo problem and do we as a Gaelic Games public come down too heavy on an amateur sportsman, doing his best for his county. He's getting married next month, he's a daughter and life is good but will be be back in red and green- definitively?

We examine success and scrutinise failures and above all, get to know one of the great footballing talents of our time. We also remember 'Three phone' John O'Mahoney. A man, exceptional at being decent. He also was the man who brought Aidan O'Shea into the senior squad- when he as still at school. O'Shea provides a fine tribute.

It’s a 90 minute special with Aidan O’Shea. We think you’ll enjoy

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