Jackie Tyrrell: New Clare supremos must get dynamic right

Kilkenny hurler Jackie Tyrrell believes Donal Óg Cusack and Davy Fitzgerald must “get the dynamic right” if Clare are to be successful next season.

The former Cork star was this week confirmed as part of Fitzgerald’s backroom team for 2016 and Tyrell believes the appointment could be hugely beneficial for the 2013 All-Ireland champions. “I think if he and Davy Fitz can get the dynamic right, it could be a great thing for Clare because they have serious talent,” Tyrrell told TV3.

The nine-time All Ireland winner believes the Cork man’s “outside the box” thinking could be the key to unlocking Clare’s potential.

“Everyone was surprised. Donal Óg is an iconic figure in the GAA world, he’s a hugely, deep thinking hurling guy. So it’s just the dynamic of how himself and Davy Fitz will get on (that will be crucial).

“If they could blend and get on for the sake of Clare hurling then it could be a great move for Davy because Donal Óg will bring a wealth of experience and professionalism to that set up “He’ll probably think outside the box which Clare probably lacked.” Tyrell pointed to the Banner’s failed application of the sweeper system as a part of their game that could be rectified by Cusack.

“When they had their sweeper system and that became unstuck, they had no real plan B so Donal would think all that out and if the different scenarios come up, what way would they come around different teams. He lives and breathes hurling.” The Loughlin Gaels clubman also revealed he hopes to return to the Kilkenny senior team if management feel he has a role to play. The Kilkenny defender had surgery on a stress fracture in his foot recently but speaking on Thursday, he said: “The foot is good; the screw is still in it at the moment.

“I’m feeling fresh so if management feel I have a role to play next year, then I’m up to the challenge .”