Lohan expected to return for Bannermen

Kilkenny and Clare renew rivalries in Thurles today for a place in the All-Ireland semi-finals against Waterford.

The sides were involved in a titanic tussle last week but Clare manager Anthony Daly came out on top in terms of tactics.

The former All-Ireland winning captain didn't announce his team until just before the throw-in and played Alan Markham in a sweeper's role, leaving two in the full-forward line. The tactic worked a treat and the Banner had Kilkenny on the ropes for much of the match.

Cats' boss Brian Cody has taken a leaf out of Daly's book and will not announce his side until just before throw-in today.

All Star corner-back Michael Kavanagh could be in line for a recall to the side as the Cats' defence was under pressure last week, leaving Tommy Walsh free to revert to the forward line. John Hoyne could also be in line for a starting place in the Kilkenny line-up.

On the Clare side, Brian Lohan is expected to return after recovering from the injury that kept him on the sidelines last week.

The Banner outplayed and out-thought Kilkenny last week, but the Cats won't be caught napping again.