Podge back training ahead of last outing

CLARE’S SENIOR footballers will make the journey to Pearse Park in Longford for their final outing of the year.

Colm Collins’ side renew acquaintances with Derry in the third round of the All-Ireland series in what is a repeat of last year’s All-Ireland quarter-final. However unlike that tie in Croke Park, the men in saffron and blue have nothing to play for as successive defeats to Donegal and Monaghan mean they cannot qualify for a preliminary quarter-final.

Cian O’Dea has departed the squad ahead of an upcom- ing move to the United States while captain Eoin Cleary is not expected to feature in Saturday’s clash against Derry.

Cooraclare’s Brian McNamara who was named on the U20 team of the year is pushing for a place in the first fifteen. His potential inclusion would likely push Darragh Bohannon to the half-forward line.

Podge Collins who went off injured during Clare’s five point loss to Monaghan has returned to training and will be available for selection this weekend.