Ciaran Whelan believes a 13-a-side game would encourage more attacking football.

Wading into the debate about the impact defensive tactics are having on Gaelic football, the former Dublin midfielder suggested on RTE: "I can see the logic behind it, I can see why teams do it but it is becoming a bit of a cancer in the game and it is certainly not adding to the entertainment value.

"That (13-a-side) creates more space and we need more space on the pitch. We need more scores and we need forwards to be able to demonstrate the skills of the game.

"That day of a forward getting the ball in space, taking on his man and slotting the ball into the corner is nearly gone. It's the one thing I think we could try out to see if it does open out the game."

Whelan is also calling for a two-tier football championship to ensure a more level playing field for everyone.

"I do think the structures have gone stale. We need a two-tier championship and a brave approach. But it's like turkeys voting for Christmas when you have the four provincials that run independently so it's very difficult politically.

"It really only kicks off from August onwards and I really think that's something we radically need to look at," the Raheny man added.

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