Jack O’Connor expects Kerry’s call on David Clifford in spring

A decision on whether David Clifford plays U20 or senior for Kerry next summer won’t be made until next spring, Jack O’Connor has suggested.

The U20 manager has spoken before about his desire for Clifford to play for him instead of the seniors in 2018 – under the new rule next year any footballer who is named on a senior championship team list can’t compete in the U20 championship. Both competitions will run concurrently.

In October, O’Connor said Clifford would be a marked man in the senior grade but appreciated the Kerry public might demand he be promoted to the senior panel immediately. O’Connor confirmed he has discussed the matter with Éamonn Fitzmaurice and the Fossa teenager will play in the Allianz League at least.