Keane asks Carey to rejoin Limerick
Speculation of problems within the camp were sparked by Carey’s retirement announcement last week, and have been fuelled by the decision of fellow panellists, Barry Foley and Mike O’Brien, to follow suit.
“Anything to do with our senior hurling panel is kept within the group. ,” said Keane.
He did admit, however, that he had asked Carey to reconsider his decision, insisting the Patrickswell man still had something to offer.
“Ciaran said he would consider the situation and would be in touch with me in due course. To date he has made no contact.
"As for Barry Foley, it was common knowledge a few weeks ago within his own club that he was going to the US and I respect his decision.”
Keane strongly refuted allegations that he had shown preference to members of the U-21 teams, which he managed for three successful seasons, over the more established senior players of the panel.
“There is no truth in that whatsoever. I treat every player equally and it is unfair to suggest otherwise,” said Keane.
As Limerick prepare for an All-Ireland qualifier, Keane is not a happy man following a decision by the Limerick County Board not to postpone a series of county championship games scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
“It’s very unsatisfactory. As things stand now the earliest date I can have a full panel available is July 14 and there is a distinct possibility that we could be playing our qualifying round two days later to maintain the programme.
“Last week the senior footballers successfully negotiated a three week gap to the Munster final with Kerry. It surprises me that some who voted in favour of that refused to back a similar request from the hurlers.
“To add to my problems, now the U-21 hurlers, 12 of whom are members of the senior panel, will be in action against Cork next Wednesday night in Pairc Uí Caoimh in the Munster semi-final.
There are three dual players and that leaves me with roughly 10 or 12 players for training this week and next. Not the ideal preparation for what is going to be a very difficult All-Ireland qualifier.”
Referring to their victory over Kerry, Keane said they made it extremely hard for his side.
“Kerry have improved no end but, no disrespect to them, if we were playing any other team we’d have been beaten.”
County Board PRO Denis Carroll said there was a huge outcry from clubs following a decision last week to postpone football championship matches in the lead up to the Munster final with Kerry.
“We took a decision not to postpone any more championship games and there has been no complaints from clubs on this occasion. They want to play games at the best time of the year for hurling.”
Upwards of 300 guests will pay €150 per head to attend a corporate lunch in Killarney on July 11, prior to the Munster SFC final between Limerick and Kerry.
The event is being organised by the Limerick County Board to help raise funds for the redevelopment of the Gaelic Grounds.
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