Former Mayo senior football manager, James Horan.

Former Mayo senior football manager, James Horan, believes that Roscommon will be viewed in a different light if they can retain their Division One status.

Despite Sunday defeat against Monaghan, Horan believes that the Rossies are heading in the right direction under Davy Burke ahead of Sunday’s top-of-the-table league clash against his native county at Dr. Hyde Park.

Writing in the Irish Examiner, Horan felt that Roscommon were hitting their “development markers”, aided by the introduction of fresh faces to the panel and a vibrant management that are “aligned”.

“A team that can be difficult to beat. Ros have always had talented players, but seemed to lack the panel depth needed to keep up the slog in Division One.

“It’s all about survival, grinding it out day in, day out regardless of unavailable personnel. This in turns builds a foundation of confidence, that says you are going to be a force to be reckoned with.

“That’s where Burke and his players look a bit different this year, they have a sprinkling of new players, a real air of confidence about them.

He continued: “Roscommon are stronger, better and, above all, more consistent than before. Davy and crew are on a roll. They yo-yo team is no more.”