Laois captain Fitzpatrick in fitness battle for All-Ireland race

FORMER Laois captain Kevin Fitzpatrick is expected to be fit in time for the county’s All-Ireland Championship campaign this summer after undergoing surgery on a groin injury last Monday.

The Portlaoise clubman has been carrying the injury for the best part of two years now and has yet to figure for the county in this year’s National League.

Fitzpatrick was due to have the problem operated on last March after his club lost the All-Ireland final to Ballina, but he decided against going it as he was nominated as county captain for the 2005 season.

Former Meath player Gery McEntee performed the operation earlier this week and it is expected it will take him between six to 10 weeks to recover his full fitness.

That leaves him in a race against team to be available for Laois’ opening Leinster Championship match against either Carlow or Wickow on June 4, but it seems certain that he would be ready for the semi-final three weeks later, should Laois progress.

The news on the versatile Fitzpatrick is further good news for Mick O’Dwyer, who welcomes midfielder Noel Garvan and attacker Ross Munnelly back into the panel for Sunday’s crucial league game at home to Kildare.

O’Dwyer has also been offered the services of the county under-21s who last week claimed the provincial title by beating Longford in Pearse Park. As many as half a dozen could be called up although they are likely to be used from the bench if at all.

Offaly have deferred selection of their side to play Waterford in the Allianz NHL at Birr on Sunday until later on in the week.

Corner-back David Franks damaged an ankle in the last game against Clare. Aidan Hanrahan is also doubtful because of hamstring trouble, while Ger Oakley is not expected home from his honeymoon until today.