Murphy set to return to training

Michael Murphy is on course to lead Donegal into battle for their All-Ireland SFC semi-final against Dublin on Sunday, August 28.

Murphy has been troubled by a hamstring strain in recent weeks, and failed to start the thrilling extra-time quarter-final win over Kildare.

The Tir Chonaill captain was introduced as a first-half substitute that day and managed to have an influence in extra-time, popping over two crucial points.

In his first outing since the Croke Park success, Murphy lined out last Sunday for his club Glenswilly in a Donegal Championship game against St Eunan's in Ballybofey.

The full-forward's hamstring stood up to the test and he kicked four frees before St Eunan's scrambled back to secure a 0-9 to 0-9 draw.

Speaking to Ulster GAA TV, he said: "It was my first full game since last week against Kildare and I hadn't done anything last week at all.

"It held up well, so hopefully I'll get back training with the county again now towards the end of this week."

Dublin enjoyed a seven-point victory over Tyrone in their delayed quarter-final, and Murphy was impressed by what he saw from the Leinster champions.

"We played against Tyrone already this year so we know what they possess. Dublin really blew them out of the water.

"They're a very impressive and well organised side. It's going to be a massive challenge for us, and it's one we'll need to prepare well for."

Donegal have taken the direct route through to the last-four of the Championship, winning the Ulster title in a four-match campaign and edging out Kildare at the All-Ireland quarter-final stage.

Murphy's county team-mate Karl Lacey has been one of Donegal's best players this summer, and it was no surprise to see him honoured this week as the Quinn Insurance Ulster GAA Writers Association award winner for July.

Lacey has been mentioned as a likely All-Star at centre-back, given the level of form he has shown in the Donegal jersey.

Accepting the award, the 26-year-old said: "Obviously the match against Dublin is creating a huge stir but we are just delighted to be involved.

"It's very encouraging that in the build-up to a big game like this I should be getting the writers' award."