Allen places trust in Hannon as Shannonsiders take on Kilkenny

A fully-fit Declan Hannon has been drafted into the Limerick team for Sunday's All-Ireland SHC quarter-final against defending champions Kilkenny.

The 19-year-old forward, who had been troubled by a groin strain, came off the bench to good effect in the qualifier win over Clare two weeks ago.

Hannon replaced Brian Geary against Clare and scored the Shannonsiders' third and final goal in the Munster derby victory.

Manager John Allen has kept the Adare attacker in place as his only change in personnel for the clash with the Cats.

Tom Condon has been named at left corner back, although he remains a doubtful starter as he continues to receive physio treatment on the knee he twisted against the Banner men.

Former Young Hurler of the Year Seamus Hickey is standing by to start if Condon does not make it, while Conor Allis and Paul Browne are both over their injury troubles and should have substitute roles.

Wing forward Shane Dowling is the 2012 Championship's top scorer currently with a haul of 4-33.

Limerick's high-scoring exploits in the All-Ireland qualifiers have also seen Niall Moran and Graeme Mulcahy weigh in with 5-6 and 3-11 from play respectively.

Indeed, Allen's charges have scored a remarkable total of 18-84 in their four Championship games to date this summer.

Limerick played Kilkenny in the 2005 All-Ireland quarter-final, losing by five points. Their last Championship meeting with Kilkenny was in the 2007 All-Ireland final when they lost by seven points.

LIMERICK (SHC v Kilkenny): Nickie Quaid; Stephen Walsh, Richie McCarthy, Tom Condon; Wayne McNamara, Donal O'Grady, Gavin O'Mahony; James Ryan, Paul O'Brien; Shane Dowling, Declan Hannon, David Breen (capt); Graeme Mulcahy, Niall Moran, Sean Tobin.