Carey bounces back in record time

TWELVE months ago, he made a fairytale return to top-flight hurling after virtually writing off the season because a combination of injury and illness. Again, DJ Carey, one of hurling's best known and most charismatic performers, has had to endure some punishment in his bid to prove his fitness for next Sunday's All-Ireland semi-final against Tipperary. By availing of the best treatment available he has been winning.

"Fitness wise, or injury-wise, I'm not worried," Carey said yesterday.

Three weeks ago he tore his hamstring in a county league semi-final with his club. Remarkably, he was back training within 10 days, after having several sessions of oxygen treatment. "It's supposed to help you heal 70% faster," he explained. "If you are a soccer player and you tear your hamstring, you are out for six weeks. I feel it certainly did some good for me."