Hope for Dubs star Fallon

Dublin could call upon the services of defender Ronan Fallon for Saturday evening's All-Ireland hurling qualifier against Clare (Parnell Park, throw-in 6pm).

Manager Tommy Naughton remains hopeful that centre back Fallon could play a part in the must-win clash.

The Metropolitans were pipped by Offaly in their opening game of qualifier Group B, and with a trip to Limerick to come on Saturday week, Naughton's side need to take something from this weekend's tie.

Fallon broke his finger in a challenge match against Antrim at the start of the month but the St Vincent's clubman's recovery has been a good one and he trained successfully last night.

Naughton is due to confirm his team tonight.

Corner back and captain Philip Brennan sustained a back injury when playing for O'Toole's over the weekend and is the main injury worry.