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26th October 2015
12:04pm GMT

Some observers, including Fitzgerald's former manager Ger Loughnane, began to question whether the one-time Waterford boss should be retained for another year, with some pointing to the influence wielded by Fitzgerald's father Pat, the county secretary.
Cusack is one of three additions to the set-up with coach Aonghus O'Brien coming on board, along with strength and conditioning coach Jimmy Payne.
The introduction of the trio should help freshen up a panel that has been on the road together for quite some time, considering their young age profile.
Tensions have been appearing, first with the decision of All-Star forward Podge Collins to opt for football ahead of hurling this year and then the controversy over the punishment of two players, which saw Davy O'Halloran leave the panel.
https://twitter.com/Darrenfrehill/status/658613995004407809
Cusack's punditry on the Sunday Game hinted at a shrewd tactical operator but it will be fascinating to see how himself and Fitzgerald work together.
“I am looking forward to the challenge and want to thank Davy Fitzgerald for the opportunity," said Cusack in a statement. “Ahead of assuming my coaching position in Clare, I have met with RTE and following mutual agreement I have been released from my contract. I would like to sincerely thank RTE for the experience they have given me. “I will be seeing out my term as Chairperson of the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) which will come to an end this year. “I have also spoken with my local club, Cloyne to confirm my decision to retire from club hurling. I would like to thank the club for the support it has shown me throughout my career."Fitzgerald made the announcement, along with releasing a provisional 34-man panel for 2016, which includes Podge Collins, but not O'Halloran.
“I am delighted to welcome Donal Óg, Aonghus and Jimmy to the setup. Their collective experience and expertise will further strengthen the already high quality backroom team in place.” “Over the next few weeks, there may be one or two additions announced to the backroom team and the panel. It is my intention to finalise the Provisional panel at the end of January ahead of the commencement of the Allianz National Hurling League,” said Fitzgerald.They have one of the most exciting collection of young hurlers in the country but have failed to click for a couple of years, can Cusack be the key to unlocking their potential?
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