Down manager James McCartan has deferred naming his team for Sunday's All-Ireland football semi-final until this evening.

Team captain Ambrose Rogers will be given every chance to prove his fitness after suffering a knee ligament injury during a recent club match, but it seems the best he can hope for is a cameo role.

"Ambrose has made himself available to play," team spokesman Ronan McMahon told the Irish News.

"However, James is still planning for Sunday's game without Ambrose, as he has planned the preparations since the extent of Ambrose's injury became known. But at this moment in time, Ambrose is making every possible effort to be able to play against Kildare.

"He wants to play, has said to the management that he's available. There is a chance that Ambrose will play.

"He's doing all he can. It is such a massive game, he really wants to be involved. He has indicated that to the management. Ambrose does not want to miss it and is making every effort to be ready to play some part in it."

If, as expected, Rogers doesn't start, Down could start either Peter Fitzpatrick or Declan Rooney at midfield alongside Kalum King, while they are also believed to be toying with the idea of switching Dan Gordon from full back. Tweet

Most Read Stories