Managed by McKinley and Terence 'Sambo' McNaughton, the Saffrons had an unsuccessful debut in the Leinster Championship, losing to Dublin last month after a promising enough National League campaign that contained four wins, a draw and two losses.

But the possibility of the reigning Ulster champions being relegated from the All-Ireland Championship for 2010 has been taken away for the time being.

Confirmation has come through from the GAA that the relegation final between Antrim and Wexford, schedule for next weekend, has been postponed.

The decision has been made 'in light of last Friday night's Disputes Resolution Authority decision in respect of relegation from the Liam McCarthy Cup.'

"It is expected that the matter will now receive the consideration of Central Council at its next meeting on August 22, when proposals in respect of the 2010 Hurling Championships will be discussed," a GAA statement read.

McKinley, an influential defender in his playing days, is clearly determined to play his part in keep Antrim in hurling's top tier.

When questioned about the rumours of him resigning, he told the Irish News: "That is totally untrue.

"The people who appointed me haven't told me anything and anyone who knows me will know that I will let my employers know first before I talk about any decision.

"Whoever said it is totally wrong. I'm committed to Antrim and I'm committed to carrying out any work I have started and we have the Ulster Under-21 final on Wednesday against Derry.

"I possibly could or I possibly couldn't (step down as joint-manager), but I'll be letting the right people know first.

"It's a very crucial period for us and, to be honest, I wouldn't trust anybody with the way things are going at the moment."

McKinley and McNaughton were appointed as Antrim's senior managerial duo in late 2006, also retaining their positions in charge of the county's Under-21s.

The Saffrons have won three successive Ulster SHC titles under the pair, as well as a provincial Under-21 Championship in 2006.