O’Neill not sure of final spot despite return

STEPHEN O’Neill’s unexpected return to the Tyrone fold for training last night — made possible by the willingness of the players to welcome him back — does not guarantee that he will be part of the squad for the September 21 All-Ireland football final against Kerry.

Manager Mickey Harte made that clear yesterday, saying that his fitness level will ultimately determine whether he could have a role to play as an impact sub or if he will have to wait until next season to resume his inter-county career.

O’Neill, who at the weekend was resigned to ‘the door being closed’ on a possible return, admitted that the move to lure him back had come ‘out of the blue.’ “It all happened very quickly. It was only talked about on Tuesday night and confirmed last night (Wednesday).”