Wexford's James Breen played through meningitis

It has emerged that Wexford’s James Breen played in the All-Ireland hurling qualifier win over Cork while suffering from viral meningitis.

And the corner-back is now a huge doubt for next Sunday’s All-Ireland SHC quarter-final clash with Waterford at Semple Stadium Breen had been ill in the days before the qualifier win but amazingly managed to shrug off his symptoms to take his place in the Wexford defence, where he was assigned the formidable task of subduing Cork dangerman Alan Cadogan.

Breen wouldn’t have played if it was known his condition was so serious, but Wexford manager Liam Dunne paid tribute to his player’s resilience and appetite for action.

“James had been sick before the Cork game. On the Thursday he complained of been sick but on the Saturday he found himself fit to play. He really responded to the cause of Wexford hurling, although no one believed his illness was so serious.

“It was not until last week that he felt unwell once again and attended Waterford University Hospital. Following tests, he was diagnosed as having viral meningitis, a lesser form of the strain, but still quite serious.

“James is on treatment at the moment and will not be released from hospital until early this week. His situation will be monitored but it’s a case of wait and see. We do not yet know if he is going to miss the Waterford game.”

Already without long-term absentees Andrew Shore, Shane Tomkins (both cruciate), Shaun Murphy (shoulder), and David Redmond (groin), Dunne confirmed Podge Doran (knee ligaments) will play no part against Waterford, while Aidan Nolan (knee) could be in line for another cameo, and Liam Ryan (thumb) may feature off the bench.