“We have stepped away from the Mayo panel for player welfare issues that are personal and sensitive to the players involved. Out of respect to the girls playing at the weekend and ourselves, we will not be commenting further. We wish the Mayo team well with their game on Saturday.”
The Womens Gaelic Players Association also commented on the issue.
"The WGPA wishes to acknowledge the situation in Mayo Ladies Football at present. We are aware of the issues at hand and are supporting all of the players. We recognise the physical and emotional commitment required to operate at the top level of our games and respect the decision of all individual players regarding their own personal playing experience.
"We would now appeal that speculation on the matter comes to an end and that all players are supported on and off the field. The WGPA will continue to work with everyone individually and collectively in the best interests of Mayo Ladies Football."
Mayo lost the Connacht final to rivals Galway last month, and were well beaten in the National League final by Dublin earlier in the year. Their quest to win that first All-Ireland since 2003 looks like an uphill battle now.
