Injury ends season for Napier and adds to Cork’s woes
Despite the fact that City are now through to the quarter-finals of the competition along with Shamrock Rovers, St Pat's, Bray, Kilkenny, Derry, Bohemians and Finn Harps Murphy is now concerned with his growing injury list.
Napier himself last night reported he was "devastated" by the injury and he confirmed that he would be out for the season.
"The season is a write off for me now, but I'm confident it's an injury I can come back from. I've been told the tendon can be repaired and my aim now is to play for Cork City again," Napier said.
He added that the injury occurred after he had contested a high ball with a Monaghan striker. "I jumped to head the ball clear and when I came down, I fell awkwardly.
"I heard the snap and felt the pain and I knew immediately it was serious."
For his part, Liam Murphy, is concerned about the long term loss of his skipper.
"Stephen had been playing as well as ever and his injury was terribly unfortunate and I hope he can come back quickly from it.
"I have just visited him at the Cork University Hospital and while his operation is over, the initial indications are not good for him.
"It is very disappointing for both Stephen and the club as he will definitely be out for the rest of the campaign.
"But Stephen is a great lad and is our most influential player, so I have no doubt he will be working extremely hard to come back as quickly as he can."
Murphy indicated that with John Andrews also out, City will most likely line out as they finished the Monaghan game, when they face Bray tomorrow (Fri.) night.
Alan Bennett will play in central defence and Colin O'Brien wide right with Greg O'Halloran and Alan Reynolds anchoring midfield.
"We have so many injuries with Conor O'Grady, James Mulligan and Declan Daly all out it is difficult.
"But we have to continue on and do our best and we will be looking for another good home performance against Bray," Murphy said.
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