Murphy set to return with Donoughmore

Cork’s Juliet Murphy is likely to make a sensational return to competitive football for Donoughmore’s second round senior championship game against St Val’s tomorrow night.

The former three-time All-Ireland-winning captain returned to the intercounty set-up on Wednesday when she trained with Eamonn Ryan’s charges as they prepare for their All-Ireland qualifier on Saturday, August 10.

Murphy announced her retirement from both club and county at the beginning of June, having not taken part in the Rebels’ National League or Munster championship campaigns. Discussing her decision to return, the five-time All Star midfielder said she was content to play any small part she could in the remaining championship — whether that entailed featuring on the field or not.

Murphy has also opted to return to club football with Donoughmore, and she is likely to feature against St Val’s in Lackabawn tomorrow night (7pm).

Coach Eamonn Ryan confirmed Murphy’s return but said the focus is now on preparing for their All-Ireland qualifier in a fortnight. This is the first time in the seven-time champions’ history that they have had to go the backdoor route.