Depleted Kerry set to call on reserves

It’s quite a Kerry team ahead of the Allianz League opener against All-Ireland finalists Mayo in Castlebar.

David Maloney returning in goals, Tomás Ó Sé, Daniel Bohane and impressive newcomer Fionn Fitzgerald in the full-back line. Jack Sherwood, Eoin Brosnan and Donncha Walsh at half back. Johnny Buckley and David Moran in midfield. Paul Galvin, Declan O’Sullivan and Kieran O’Leary as half-forwards, with Colm Cooper, Kieran Donaghy and Paul Geaney up top.

Trouble is, these are the players new coach Eamonn Fitzmaurice must do without on Sunday in their League opener. When Kerry name their team today, he will be short a full team for a variety of reasons — ranging from injury to honeymoon to club commitments (with Dr Crokes) to a phased return for veterans like Tomás Ó Sé, Paul Galvin and Declan O’Sullivan.