Murphy credits junior run for senior elevation

DIARMUID MURPHY has taken an unusual route to become Kerry’s first choice goalkeeper.

While most in the position come through the minor and U21 ranks, the Killarney-based insurance official credits a spell with the junior team for propelling him into the limelight as replacement to Declan O’Keeffe. And he is eternally grateful to manager Buddy O’Grady for the chance.

From the Dingle club, he won All-Ireland U21 medals in 1995 and again the following year. But it was only in 2001 that Páidí Ó Sé brought him into his panel, taking over as reserve from Peter O’Leary.