O’Dwyer begins Kerry career

KERRY hurling boss John Meyler has confirmed that former Kilkenny star Willie O’Dwyer has begun training with the Kingdom.

Five-time All-Ireland winner O’Dwyer, who lives in Kerry, linked up with his new county team-mates for training this week, with Meyler thrilled to have the experienced 27-year-old on board for the new season.

Meyler said: “Willie trained with us on Tuesday night and is ready to roll. The paperwork has gone to Croke Park, That’s it. He’s in. He’s training. It’s a big boost to have Willie on board from the point of view of his quality, his experience, his leadership qualities and all of that. He has been there and done that with Kilkenny, so it can only be of benefit to the younger players in the panel. That experience of playing at the highest level is so valuable to Kerry, and more importantly it’s valuable to the younger players in the squad.”

O’Dwyer, who lives in Killarney and works in Tralee, will continue to line out for his home club Mullinavat in Kilkenny. He is in contention to make his Kerry debut in a Waterford Crystal Cup tie against IT Tralee this month in Killarney.

Meanwhile Meyler confirmed that Shane Brick has returned to training after a lengthy injury lay-off.

“Shane Brick is back. He hasn’t been there for a year. It’s great to have him back because he is a big asset to us.”