Sean Boylan has been dealt a blow ahead of his preparations for this year's International Rules Series with the news that Setanta Ó hAilpín is suffering from a back injury which is likely to rule him out of the Series. The former Cork hurling star, who is now a regular with AFL club Carlton, has been sidelined with the injury over the last couple of weeks and is to undergo an operation in Germany shortly by renowned surgeon Dr Hans Muller-Wohlfahrt. "Setanta and his manager met with myself and [Carlton coach] Brett Ratten this morning to discuss the operations available to assist his treatment and recovery," said Carlton General Manager for Football Operations Steve Icke. "We believe this is the best option available to ensure Setanta is able to fully recover from this injury." With this year's International Rules Series set to take place in October, Ó hAilpín is now focussing on returning to pre-season training at the end of the month. "It has been very frustrating and I am hoping my visit to Germany will provide the answers that will ensure I am ready for pre-season training in late October. Tweet

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