Groin op sidelines Offaly legend Whelahan

Offaly look set to be without legendary half back Brian Whelehan for the duration of this season's National Hurling League.

Whelahan, whose inter-county retirement was mooted last year, was pencilled in to have an operation on a Gilmore's Groin injury yesterday (Friday).

The 34-year-old Birr clubman is expected to be out of action for the group section of the NHL, but could return if the Faithfuls make the Division One knock-out stages in April.

John McIntyrne's Offaly side open their league campaign against All-Ireland champions Cork on February 19.

Meanwhile, Simon Whelahan, Brian's younger brother, has rejoined the Offaly panel after a year out. The 29-year-old is steadily making his way back after knee ligament surgery.

The availability of the third Whelahan brother, Barry, is as yet unclear. Barry, who captained Birr to the county title in October, has decided to emigrate to Australia.