Farrell: players must be heard

GPA chief executive Dessie Farrell has defended the upsurge in player unrest, claiming inter-county panels have every right to make their voices heard when they believe highest of standards are not being met.

The stand-off between the Cork County Board and its senior hurling panel has been the focus of most attention but there have been other uprisings — in Wexford and Offaly — where senior managers have been forced to fall on their swords.

“I don’t see it as player power,” said Farrell. “If it is harnessed it can be very useful. By and large, there is a great willingness amongst officials and county board administrators to engage with players. Players have their fingers on the pulse. They know what is required.