Final fitness boost for Banner star Honan

CLARE U21 attacking star Darach Honan is set to shake off a hamstring injury and start in next Sunday’s Bord Gáis Energy All-Ireland U21 decider against Kilkenny in Croke Park.

Honan incurred the injury in a Clare SHC game with his club Clonlara but he has responded well to the extensive treatment since then and his presence in the Clare full-forward line is a major boost to Clare’s hopes of a historic first title. Honan has racked up 5-10 in the campaign to date with his 2-4 haul pivotal to their All-Ireland U21HC semi-final victory over Galway.

Cathal Chaplin has also recovered from a broken finger and should be fit to partner Enda Barrett at midfield. That means Sean Collins remains Clare’s biggest injury doubt after damaging his shoulder while playing for his club Cratloe in a county intermediate football championship tie. Collins lined out at left half-forward against Galway notching two points with Cathal McGrath and Conor Tierney both vying to replace him.