Clare minor joint manager Gerry O'Connor says that Kilkenny have been the team to help his side more than any to reach this year's ESB All-Ireland MHC final.

The young Banner men take on the Cats on Sunday week at Croke Park, which will be thr fourth meeting between the sides this season.

"Ironically, they are the team that has helped us the most, as they are the one team that will come to play in a full-blooded challenge," said O'Connor.

"They have no interest in playing challenge matches just for the sake of playing. They will be as near to full strength as is possible for such games. They have been most helpful and most instrumental in us getting to the All-Ireland final."

O'Connor also reported a clean bill of health ahead of the showdown on September 5.

"At this stage we will have a full squad available for the final," said O'Connor. Tweet

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