Leitrim captain Michael McWeeney has echoed recent comments from Cavan manager Mickey Graham by suggesting that inter-county players are being targeted on their return to club duty over the last few weeks.

McWeeney, who himself is currently on the injured list, revealed that Leitrim were missing half their squad for a challenge game last week as a result of players picking up knocks in club games recently.

"It was a bit of a lull coming off it (Division 4 final) because of the hype that had built up, but it was great to go straight back into the clubs," he told the Irish Independent.

"But when you go back you would prefer to have a bit of protection," he said. "We played a game on Monday night with Leitrim and half our team were missing because we got knocks. I'd like to see players get more protection.

"I saw the Cavan manager saying it, how many players he is down. I see it every year - when you go back (in these weeks), you are targeted straight away. I'd just like more protection, from my own point of view."

He added: "I got a collision. I've been ruled out with whiplash for the last couple of weeks so I don't know, time is against me with it. It's in every county. There's no point making excuses. Just get on with it.”

Tweet

Most Read Stories