Cody would love to see Corbett back in action

Kilkenny manager Brian Cody has spoken out about the retirements of John Dalton and Cha Fitzpatrick from the Kilkenny panel — and expressed his wish to see Lar Corbett back on the playing field.

Regarding Kilkenny’s recent rash of retirements, Cody said: “These lads have given serious years of service when you think of the likes of Mick Kavanagh, Eddie Brennan who have been there so long. PJ Ryan hasn’t played for as many years, but (in terms of) age-profile he would have been there as well. John Dalton and Cha are obviously very, very young and there was surprise there. But that’s just the way it works.

“It was their own decision. Regardless of who it is, I don’t torment the lads from September until January. They live their lives and we all carry on. At the start of the year, when the time comes along, we get together and we have a chat about things. It was strictly the lads’ decision and I wouldn’t be pre-empting what they’ll do.