Shane O'Donnell fitness update

Shane O'Donnell of Clare before the All-Ireland SHC final match between Clare and Cork. Pic: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Reigning hurler of the year Shane O’Donnell still aims to play some part in Clare’s championship campaign this year.

O’Donnell is not expected to be fit in time for the All-Ireland champions' opening Munster SHC game against Cork in Ennis on Easter Sunday, April 20.

However, there is hope he will be available for the latter stages of the provincial championship. Clare face Limerick in their final round game in TUS Gaelic Grounds on May 25.

Last month, manager Brian Lohan indicated the Éire Óg, Ennis man would not be available this season. 

“It’s very unfortunate for Shane himself and the team as well. We looked at every option with Shane but the medical advice was that surgery was 100% necessary, so we wish him well and a full recovery.” 

Prior to Lohan’s comments, it had been assumed O’Donnell was following his practice of the previous couple of years and delaying his return to collective training with Clare until the latter stages of the Allianz League.

O’Donnell hurt his shoulder during last year’s All-Ireland final win over Cork.

There have been conflicting reports about O’Donnell having undergone an operation for the injury.

CLARIFICATION: The Irish Examiner would like to make it clear that Shane O’Donnell has not been at, or taken part in, any Clare training session this year.