Walsh fit for final clash with Mayo

Aidan Walsh last night declared himself fit for next Sunday’s Allianz Division 1 football league final against Mayo following his recovery from a back injury sustained during the Rebels recent Division 1 semi-final victory over Down.

Walsh missed out on a county SFC match with his division Duhallow last week as a result when they defeated holders UCC but is hopeful of returning to squad training tonight.

“I hurt my back during the Down game, falling on it awkwardly. There was a clot in my back then, just a build-up of blood. It was sore and every part of training that you do is affected then with your back being at you.”

Cork will definitely be without defender Eoin O’Mahony for the Mayo match after he broke two bones in his hand in a game with his club Macroom last Saturday night.

O’Mahony, who won a Sigerson Cup medal with UCC last year, had made his breakthrough for Cork this spring and started in their tie against Donegal last month.

However he now faces 6-8 weeks on the sidelines and will undergo surgery this week.

Meanwhile, Walsh paid tribute to Cork senior hurling goalkeeper Donal Óg Cusack and wished him well in his recovery from the Achilles tendon injury he incurred during last Sunday’s Division 1 league semi-final against Tipperary.

“It was very disappointing to see. I’ve met him a few times.

“He’s a very nice fella and is very approachable.

“I remember I came in for one trial session with the Cork senior hurlers a couple of years ago and he came up to me and he was very helpful.

“I think he’s just an inspirational fella. Hopefully he’ll have a speedy recovery and will get back between the posts for Cork.”