Clare still inspired by hero Loughnane

IN Clare’s magnificent All-Ireland title wins of 1995 and 1997, one man stood head and shoulders above all others — manager Ger Loughnane. A charismatic figure, it was the power and force of his personality that drove Clare to new heights during those heady years.

News this week that Loughnane is battling leukaemia has sent shockwaves through the GAA world and beyond.

Ger ‘Sparrow’ O’Loughlin was one of the playing stars of the Loughnane era. Nowadays he is at the helm of the county side who face Galway in a make-or-break All-Ireland SHC qualifier at Pearse Stadium on Saturday night. And how he would love to bring some good news to his former manager this weekend.