‘Leader’ Colin O’Riordan an inspiration for all, says Tipperary boss Michael McGeehan

Tipperary U21 football selector Michael McGeehan has issued glowing praise for the leadership qualities of team captain Colin O’Riordan ahead of tomorrow’s All-Ireland semi-final meeting with Dublin.

The 20-year old midfielder was concussed during Tipperary’s league win over Sligo at the end of last month, casting doubt over his involvement in last week’s Munster U21 final. But O’Riordan delivered a superb performance against Cork, kicking two crucial second-half points.

“My first experience of Colin was last year with the senior squad. We brought him in just before the Munster senior semi-final against Cork and I can only sing his praises because he’s one of those players who when he speaks in the dressing room, you listen,” said McGeehan.

“You don’t expect a 17 or 18-year-old to speak with the senior players but he did before we went out against Cork. He gave the speech and it was one of those moments when the hairs on the back of your neck would stand up

A lot of players talk in dressing rooms, but he goes out onto the pitch and does what he says he’s going to do.

“He walks the walk as well as talks the talk.

“He’s a leader, he’s got an old head on young shoulders and he’s a good player on top of it.”

Added McGeehan: “A lot of this team weren’t involved when be beat Dublin in the minor final in 2011 so I don’t think that result will have a big impact on Saturday.”