Kildare's Sweeney goes under the knife

Versatile Kildare footballer Ronan Sweeney looks set to miss the remainder of his county's National League campaign after having an operation on his groin.

The long-term injury failed to stop Sweeney from helping his club Moorefield claim their first ever Leinster SFC title last year.

But the 26-year-old, who is nicknamed 'Roli', is now set for a recovery period of between four and six weeks after undergoing surgery.

Sweeney was named AIB Leinster Club Player of the Year on Monday.

Between now and April 8, Kildare have to play Galway, Louth, Westmeath and Laois in their remaining Division 1B games.

Unless the Lilywhites make the league's knockout stages, Sweeney, who bounced back from a Gilmore's Groin injury last year, will be targeting May 20 for his return date when Kildare clash with Meath in the Leinster championship.