Hayes a doubt for Galway

Galway’s preparations for the All-Ireland Qualifiers’ clash with Clare have been hit with the news pacy corner-forward Damien Hayes is a major doubt.

Hayes is suffering from a calf injury and Galway manager John McIntyre feels it will be touch-and-go for the Portumna ace to make the Cusack Park showdown.

The talented attacker did the damage in club championship action against Turloughmore at the weekend and, worryingly, has been unable to do any training in the interim.

"Damien carried the calf injury into the club game and, unfortunately, he aggravated it,’ revealed McIntyre.

"Damien’s condition is a major worry and we’re just keeping our fingers crossed he will be available. He will be receiving ongoing treatment and with nine days still to the match, hopefully he will make sufficient improvement to be available for selection."

McIntyre won’t be able to call on Richie Murray, who was handed a straight red card by referee Barry Kelly shortly after coming on as a sub in the clash with the Cats. On the plus side, however, McIntyre’s goalkeeping selection options increased with the re-availability of James Skehill.

For more on this story, see the Irish Examiner online.