Counihan keeps close eye on tyros

On Sunday afternoon he takes the managerial reins in Páirc Uí Chaoimh but in the bigger picture for Cork football, next Wednesday in Tralee occupies a place in Conor Counihan’s thoughts.

Ever since filling the Cork hotseat, Counihan has implemented a springtime policy of not drafting U21 players into his lineup until their own age group has been completed. He has not deviated this season but just because players are out of sight does not mean they out of mind with the progress of John Cleary’s charges that face Kerry in next week’s Munster decider being closely monitored.

“We’ve always stayed away from guys on U21 panels and left John Cleary and his management work with them. But we don’t forget about them at all.