Whelan wants International Rules return

Dublin midfielder Ciarán Whelan has backed a return for the International Rules Series but only if the issues surrounding indiscipline, which marred the last Series in 2006, can be addressed.

"If they sort it out and sort out the issues with it, it's a great trip abroad for fellas who get the opportunity to go out and spend three or four weeks in the role of a professional footballer," Whelan said.

"I have done it twice and it was thoroughly enjoyable."

However, although the Raheny man enjoyed his previous stints Down Under, he isn't keen on making a third trip to Australia.

"I opted out the last time and I spent four years at it and been to Australia twice. With my family commitments and everything it just wouldn't be on."

Whelan also urges GAA officials to look at a bi-annual experiment as opposed to the traditional yearly exercise.

"Whether or not they should do it every year (I'm not sure). Every year you aren't going to get your best team out. Every two years and a trip to Australia every four years might be the right thing to do."

On the Dublin front, Whelan believes that his side need to give an extra push this year. The Dubs have been on the up since Paul Caffrey took over in 2004, and with a winning formula so far this season, 'Whelo' believes that 2008 could be make or break for the 'Dubs' under 'Pillar'.

"The management have been working with this group of players for three years and they got a one year extension, so that indicates that there is one more year and one more push.

"I think it is the right thing to do, a lot of work and development has gone on in the background and a lot of work and preparation and I didn't think it was the right time for change.

"I think the current group of lads have another push in them for one more year and at the end of the year you reflect on the management change and see what players are at. There could be a little bit of change at the end of the year too."

With Dublin blitzing both the O'Byrne Cup and league so far this season, Whelan feels there is the right mix of players in the squad at present to deliver further silverware.

"There is maturity in the team at present. The team who won the under 21 All-Ireland in 2003, are all developing and they are all in their mid-twenties now. The team we'd like to think has a good blend of experience and youth and the moment and hopefully we can use it to our benefit."

Whelan strongly feels that the introduction of Caffrey, Dave Billings and Brian Talty to the management team in '04, couldn't have come at a better time.

"We were at a low ebb in 2004 when the lads took over. They got us back on track fairly quickly. I think as long as you are delivering results you are going to be in demand really."

On a personal note, Whelan is delighted to be back in the Dublin jersey after a brief spell on the sidelines.

"I'm hoping to get a bit of game time against Antrim on Friday night. Fellas who haven't been involved in the last few weeks will have an opportunity to get a bit of game time under their belts."