Collins comes in for Galway

David Collins has recovered from injury to take his place in the Galway team for tomorrow's Leinster SHC final against Kilkenny.

Collins, who has shaken off an ankle injury, will make his first start of the Championship campaign at right corner back.

The Tribesmen's former captain takes over from Joseph Cooney in a rejigged defence, with Niall Donoghue moving to right half back and Johnny Coen now on the left wing.

Manager Anthony Cunningham will want a much more cohesive performance from his side at Croke Park (throw-in 4pm) after leaking seven goals in their last two Championship games.

Galway's attack has been a real area of strength so far in the outings against Westmeath and Offaly, running up a two-match tally of 10-42.

David Burke (3-2) and Damien Hayes (1-5) have been particularly impressive up front, while Joe Canning, who returned to hit 0-11 in the semi-final win over Offaly, is always a threat.

Galway have lost their last four Championship encounters with Kilkenny, including the 2010 Leinster final (1-19 to 1-12). Their most recent victory over the Cats was back in 2005 when they won a memorable All-Ireland semi-final by 5-18 to 4-18.

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