Kerry v Donegal: Ryan McHugh keen to taste his own success in All-Ireland final

Ryan McHugh says emulating his successful family members is not a primary motivation for this weekend’s All-Ireland football final against Kerry.

McHugh’s dad, Martin, and uncle, James, were key figures in Donegal’s maiden All-Ireland win in 1992, while older brother Mark played when Sam Maguire returned to the hills in 2012.

Ryan joined Mark on the team that reached the 2014 final against Kerry but fell short and, although his older brother has progressed on to coaching, the younger of the Kilcar brothers is still a mainstay in the green and gold.

Although he would dearly love to get his own Celtic Cross this weekend, his desire to succeed is fuelled by a motivation to reach the top and banish the memories of the disappointing days since.

“I haven’t got one yet, but it’s nothing I think of,” the 31-year-old told BBC Sport NI.

“Mark and dad had phenomenal careers for Donegal. Would I love an All-Ireland medal? Of course I would. It’s over to me now to do that, but it’s not something I think of that I have to get one because they did.

“I’m blessed to have been born at a time where Donegal have been in All-Ireland finals. As a supporter in 2012 and with Mark playing, it was unbelievable for the family.

“Then in ’14 with myself involved, it was massive for the family and for Donegal. It was disappointing in ’14, but hopefully we can put that right this time.”