The changes in Dessie Farrell’s Dublin rebuild, and the one constant

A SWOT of the Dublin squad does expose one potential vulnerability.

FINGER-POINTING: Dublin manager Dessie Farrell during the Dioralyte O'Byrne Cup final match between Dublin and Longford. Pic: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Dublin’s league opener against Monaghan in Croke Park today will be Dessie Farrell’s 50th game in charge between league and championship. Remarkably, one player has started in every single one.

At one point after Brian Fenton’s immense performance in the All-Ireland final it looked like he was on course to join illustrious company. He would have been the sole three-time Footballer of the Year if not pipped by David Clifford. Kerry legend Jack O’Shea, a four-time winner under the old Texaco award, would suddenly have been within arm’s reach. Fenton’s track record would indicate there is still time.