Despite last month leading the county to a second All-Ireland final in four seasons, a significant part of the panel are understood to have expressed concern about Cunningham continuing in the role.

In a meeting of 2015 panel members last weekend, it was agreed a group would take a stance on the matter.

Sources from south of the county claim a delegation of four players were nominated to articulate the majority's views to Cunningham in person.

Within 48 hours of speaking to Cunningham, the St Thomas man had been ratified for the 2016 season by the County Board, which is understood to have angered a lot in the group.

Galway officials are now working frantically in an attempt to avoid a repeat of what happened in Mayo yesterday when Noel Connelly and Pat Holmes stepped down in the wake of player discontent.

A County Board source believes disaffected players have been inspired by what has transpired in their neighbouring county.

Having served his initial three-year term, Cunningham was last year reappointed as manager having had to sit another interview for the position.

He was handed another three-year agreement with a review after each season.