Shane O'Donnell hopeful for one more Clare season before he hits the road

Clare forward Shane O'Donnell said he will stay for one more inter-county season before most likely emigrating at the end of 2026.

Shane O'Donnell said his intention is to play for Clare in 2026 "if Brian Lohan still wants me". Pic: Ray McManus/Sportsfile

Shane O'Donnell has confirmed that he'll attempt to play on for Clare in 2026 - providing his body holds up.

The 2024 Hurler of the Year made a speedy return from shoulder surgery last winter to compete for the Banner in this year's Championship.

It was anticipated that 2025 may be his last season as the PhD graduate has stated on a number of occasions that he wants to pursue his career internationally.

But speaking at Wednesday afternoon's launch of the AIB All-Ireland club championships, the recent county SHC title winner with Éire Óg Ennis, said that he will stay for one more season of inter-county activity before most likely emigrating at the end of 2026.

"The fitness is actually kind of the question," said O'Donnell regarding next season with Clare. "I think the intention is for me to go again basically and I'm sure you're kind of frustrated with me humming and hawing about this publicly, about whether I do or don't go again each year.

"But I think it's about physically whether I can get myself right at this stage. I think I've really managed to accumulate a lot of injuries this year. I've probably come back into the campaign a bit undercooked after the shoulder surgery, after chasing back from that.

"It's been tough to stay on the pitch. If I can clear those injuries in the off-season, and put myself in a position to actually physically be in a place that I can survive the entire year, then my intention is to go again if Brian Lohan still wants me. So yeah, that's kind of where I'm at with it."