Cork boost as Coughlan set to rejoin squad

Cork manager Jimmy Barry-Murphy has received a massive pre-championship boost with the imminent return of attacker Jamie Coughlan to full training.

Coughlan, 21, missed Cork’s league campaign after undergoing hip surgery in February. But the Newtownshandrum attacker is now on course for the Munster SHC semi-final against Clare or Waterford on June 23.

The former Munster minor medallist has been working closely with team physio Declan O’Sullivan as he steps up his recovery and yesterday, Cork selector Seanie McGrath revealed Coughlan would return to full training any day.

Next Sunday’s glamour challenge match against Tipperary in Cloughduv will come too soon for Coughlan but Castlelyons clubman Colm Spillane could return after missing the last couple of weeks with a hamstring problem.

McGrath added: “Jamie has done his rehab very well and it’s great to see him back. He’s already back in with the squad, working with Deccie in the corner, twisting and turning. It’s fantastic to see him back.”