Hughes sidelined for Down

Danny Hughes will be an absentee for Down's All-Ireland SFC first round qualifier against Clare on Saturday.

The 2010 All-Star reportedly injured his hamstring during a training session last night and will not be risked for the Ennis trip.

Down boss James McCartan already has quite a considerable injury list to mull over, with forwards Benny Coulter and Conor Maginn among the doubtful players.

Both Coulter and Maginn have hamstring injuries but are likely to play, particularly Coulter who lined out as a second half substitute for Mayobridge last week.

Damien Rafferty (quad/hip), Conor Garvey (hamstring), Gerard McCartan (ankle) have all been ruled out for the Clare game along with Darren O'Hagan.

Martin Clarke recently returned from a trip to Melbourne and has been training with the Mourne men and playing for club side An Riocht.

Meanwhile, Down minor captain Caolan Mooney is poised to make his senior bow for the county in Saturday's game, most likely as a substitute.

The Rostrevor youngster has impressed McCartan in training and challenge matches and will be part of their 26-strong matchday panel.

Mooney's spell with the Down seniors will be shortlived as he is due to fly Down Under in the coming months to take up an international rookie contract with Collingwood, Clarke's former AFL club.