Canning returns to Galway team

The Galway team named to face Offaly in Sunday's Leinster SHC semi-final shows three changes to the side that beat Westmeath last time out.

Joe Canning returns at full-forward having missed the 10-point win over Westmeath with a shoulder injury. The Portumna sharpshooter replaces Davy Glennon in attack.

The two other changes made by manager Anthony Cunningham see the fit-again James Skehill resume in goal and Joseph Cooney takes over from recent debutant Paul Gordon at right half-back.

Defender David Collins had reportedly recovered from an ankle injury, but there remains a doubt over the fitness of the former Young Hurler of the Year.

Speaking ahead of the Portlaoise shootout (throw-in 2pm), Galway coach Tom Helebert said: "(Beating Tipperary 3-16 to 0-21 in a challenge match) was a good workout last weekend and the important thing on the night was that we had a good defensive performance.

"Fellows were very much focused on making sure the goal area wasn't threatened and they were determined not to let Tipperary score any goals on the night. So, that was very encouraging given we had conceded four goals gainst Westmeath the Sunday before."

He told the Galway City Tribune: "The likes of Shane Dooley, Joe Bergin and Cathal Parlon, they are all strong ball winners and strong finishers, so we have to make sure our game is very solid at the back the next day against Offaly."

GALWAY (SHC v Offaly): James Skehill; Niall Donoghue, Kevin Hynes, Fergal Moore (capt); Joseph Cooney, Tony Óg Regan, Johnny Coen; Iarla Tannian, Andy Smith; David Burke, Niall Burke, Cyril Donnellan; Damien Hayes, Joe Canning, Conor Cooney.