Inspirational captain Brennan believes Banner can bridge gap

MUNSTER SFC SEMI-FINAL:

As things stand the Clare captain is well known to all opposition players and management and rest assured Cork’s Conor Counihan and his backroom staff will have done their homework for the past couple of weeks on how to curb the influence of the big midfielder.

Brennan is unlikely to win any of the top team honours in the game. Even his club, Clondegad, is hardly a powerhouse in Clare senior football. But the notion of transferring to a more successful side is instantly dismissed.

“For as long as I can remember all I’ve ever wanted to do was play football for Clare and I’m lucky enough to be in that position now,” he said. “Every time I put on that jersey it’s an honour and a privilege, something I really enjoy. I’ve never been approached by another county, would never be tempted even if it happened. I’m very proud to be a Clareman.”

At club level Gary is a dual player and in fact his home club, Ballyea, would be better known for the small-ball game.

“I grew up watching the Clare hurling team of the ’90s. Great times for the county. The football of ’92 was a little before my time, I was only four then, but I can certainly remember Clare beating Cork in ’97 here in the Park, another huge day for Clare. In a way I was almost jealous of the hurlers, the success they had, and I want that for the footballers.”

While he’s a realist and knows that this Sunday Clare are underdogs he’s also a dreamer.

“Obviously it’s a huge challenge, Division 4 against Division 1. There’s an awesome standard now in the top division, the pace of the game, the options those teams have, the sheer numbers.

“I suppose if looked at it very coldly and saw only that massive gap you mightn’t bother anymore! But that’s the beauty of sport, there’s always that day when you can bridge that gap. Strength and conditioning is a huge part of it but you can be the fittest footballer in Ireland, you can be the strongest footballer in Ireland, but if you can’t kick the football you’re no good to anyone.”