Ruth nearing return for Wexford

Declan Ruth is poised to make his first start of the season for Wexford's hurlers when they take on Cork this Sunday in the National League (Pairc Ui Chaoimh, throw-in 3.30pm).

Centre back Ruth, 31, has spent the past three months on the sidelines, rehabbing a hamstring injury.

The Rapparees/Starlights clubman is hoping to help Wexford secure their third league win on the trot at the weekend.

John Meyler's men have come good in recent weeks, beating both Clare and Offaly after a dismal start to their Division 1A campaign against Waterford.

Ruth was part of the panel for last Sunday's 1-16 to 1-11 home victory over Offaly, but did not see any game-time. Encouragingly, Diarmuid Lyng did - the midfielder known as 'Gizzy' has bounced back from a thumb injury.

Meyler should shortly have a full compliment of players to choose from with Willie Doran, Barry Lambert and Darren Stamp having recently recovered from knocks. Live wire attacker Stephen Doyle is also making good progress with the shoulder injury he sustained in a club game last October.

Ruth and Lambert both played the full 70 minutes in a recent challenge match against the Wexford Under-21s, while Doran and Stamp returned to the fray against Offaly.