McGrath Cup clashing with Sigerson defeats the purpose for Cork

Cork manager John Cleary believes the McGrath Cup should be a platform for developing players but it clashing with the Sigerson Cup inhibits his chances to introduce new blood

John Cleary said Cork's "sole focus" is their National League opening game against Cavan at the end of January. Pic: Tom Beary/Sportsfile

John Cleary couldn’t be more frank in his assessment of the returning McGrath Cup and its worth to the Cork set-up.

The revived pre-season competition is not a priority for the Cork football manager. The beginning of the Division 2 League at the end of this month is Cork’s focus, has been since they returned to collective training at the end of November.