Capitulation to Down was lowlight of career for Fermanagh's Declan McCusker

Declan McCusker said it would be a "massive boost" to get Ultan Kelm back for Fermanagh's Tailteann Cup campaign but he's unsure if the forward will recover in time from a hip problem. 

Declan McCusker said Fermanagh's recent defeat to Down in the Ulster SFC, despite being seven points up with eight minutes to play, was "brutal". Pic: ©INPHO/Lorcan Doherty

Fermanagh captain Declan McCusker has conceded that vice-captain and AFL hopeful Ultan Kelm could miss the entire Championship.

Fermanagh will begin their Tailteann Cup campaign at home to Carlow on Sunday but will be without versatile forward Kelm again.