Ethan Rafferty’s return from injury is a big boost for the Armagh squad, says Kieran McGeeney

But on Saturday, eight months following what actually proved to a particularly troublesome ankle problem, Rafferty finds himself included in the Armagh squad for the Ulster Senior Football Championship Semi-final against Down at the BOX-IT Athletic Grounds (5.15pm).

He may have had to exercise patience in abundance but Rafferty clearly relishes his return to the county fold knowing that he faces a battle to reclaim his place from Blaine Hughes.

In Rafferty’s absence, Hughes has conceded just two goals in nine League and Championship matches — his League form in particular having played no small part in helping to restore the Orchard County back into Division One following their disappointing relegation last year.

Such is Rafferty’s appetite for action — and his versatility — that he is invariably willing to fulfil any role which manager Kieran McGeeney may deem appropriate but with Hughes understandably starting in the No.1 shirt today against Down given his superb form of late, Rafferty may have to exercise a little patience although he could still get the opportunity to sample action again between the posts depending on how things go.

“We are very fortunate in terms of the goalkeepers we have right now and it’s great to see Ethan back in the reckoning again,” points out McGeeney, “Obviously there has been a considerable spotlight on goalkeepers lately, maybe never more so than last week-end but from our perspective we would hope to keep a clean sheet today if we can.”

Armagh came out on top when they met Down in the Ulster Championship last year and while the Orchard County encountered little difficulty in disposing of the challenge of Fermanagh in their recent Ulster Championship preliminary round tie, Down did not quite have a straightforward passage in their encounter with a stubborn Antrim side.

Down were never quite able to overcome Antrim’s challenge which has made them more determined to rise to the occasion against Armagh.

McGeeney is aware that Down are capable of better form and is urging his side to keep their guard up on Saturday.

“Down won promotion in the League and even though they may have found the going a bit difficult against Antrim in the Championship, we know they will be looking to turn in a more accomplished performance against us. It’s important as we see it that we get into our stride quickly and ensure that we maintain our concentration. Our aim is to reach the Final,” stresses McGeeney.