Kilkenny defender Paul Murphy says relegation wouldn't be embarrassing for the Cats.

The league holders and reigning All-Ireland champions host Clare in the Division 1A relegation final on Sunday and Murphy notes that the Black & Amber are not above operating on the second tier:

"I wouldn't be embarrassed to be in 1B," the Danesfort clubman told The Irish Examiner. "Limerick and Waterford and that are in 1B and Limerick had a massive year last year, nearly won the All- Ireland. No, I wouldn't be embarrassed to go down, but I certainly don't want to go down, that's one thing for sure.

"Next week is a real challenge. We do want to stay up in Division 1A. It's very important to stay up there, especially for next year to get the good matches under your belt going into the championship. You want to be in the most competitive division."

Murphy admits that he has made mistakes at full back, where he was posted for all five of the Cats' league games to date:

"I knew I was going to make mistakes going in there, they are all learning curves. I suppose some lads mightn't think going from corner back to full back is a big step, but it is. You have to approach it differently.

"I have made mistakes along the way but I'm fully acceptable of them and I am after learning from them, that's the main thing. I had a hard day last week against Seamus Callanan but that's the type of hurler he is. If you are going out every day thinking you are going to have it handy then you are in for a rude awakening in the championship. It's been tough but I'm enjoying the challenge.

"I have full confidence in myself I will be able to play at No.3 and Brian has full belief in me as well. Look, Joey Holden will be back next week, I'm sure he will get a chance at some stage as well at full back, whether it be in training or next week, but regardless of what happens if he plays me full back I'll be delighted and take it on ."

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