Clare talisman hopeful of being back after being ruled out for season

This would be huge for the Banner!

Clare have received a massive boost as reigning Hurler of the Year Shane O'Donnell is hopeful of playing later this season.

As we reported previously, O'Donnell had been ruled out for the season due to shoulder surgery after picking up an injury in last year's All-Ireland final win against Cork, although there are conflicting reports on whether this surgery went ahead.

Back in February, Clare boss Brian Lohan said: “It’s very unfortunate for Shane himself and the team as well. We looked at every option with Shane but the medical advice was that surgery was 100% necessary, so we wish him well and a full recovery.”

However, as per the Irish Examiner, the Éire Óg man has been in non-contact training with Clare and is hopeful of making it back for the latter stages of the Munster Championship.

The 30-year-old has returned late to the Clare team over the past number of years, to allow him to be in top shape for the championship season, but did return for the NHL final last year.

The Banner county missed his presence this year, as they finished bottom of Division 1A.